NYU suspends classes in Italy over virus concerns

New York University says it has suspended its study abroad program in Florence, Italy as the country deals with the COVID-19 viral outbreak that has sickened hundreds across Europe.

Perri Klass, the co-director or NYU Florence, says the school made the decision this week out of an abundance of caution, and students have already been sent home.

"I think they were very disappointed. I think they loved being here and it's a wonderful place to be -- to be in Florence, to be on this campus. And we love having them here. But I also think they understand and I think they had also been hearing in many cases from their parents who were concerned," said Klass.

The school plans to resume the classes remotely online on Monday for the remaining two weeks before spring break, and hopefully resume courses after, if possible.

The Florence campus hosts roughly 300 students per semester and offers courses in marketing, economics politics, as well as classes on local culture and history.