COVID-19 Update - Sept. 15

Dear JMU Family, 

Update on Cases

The university observed 13 new positive cases of COVID-19 on Sept. 14, with 55 cases becoming considered “recovered,” meaning they were diagnosed as positive more than 10 days ago and are no longer infectious. The number of open quarantine and isolation beds is steady at 54, and the percentage of positive test results continues to fall. More information can be found on the university’s Stop the Spread dashboard. De-densifying campus was a necessary step to protect the community. However, individuals must continue to follow public health guidance by wearing masks, maintaining physical distance and washing hands frequently. That will not change until a vaccine is widely available.  

Change in Deadline

Because a number of JMU students and families are making inquiries, the university has extended the deadline for receiving a full refund upon withdrawing from the university from Sept. 15 to midnight on Sept. 26. When JMU shifted to primarily virtual instruction on Sept. 1, the university committed to informing the community of its ability to return to in-person instruction by Sept. 25. So, by extending the original Sept. 15 deadline, students and families now have more time to make a decision about the rest of the semester. After Sept. 26 and until midnight on Oct. 10, students and families who decide to withdraw will receive a 75% refund.  

Stop the Spread HELPline

If you have questions and can’t readily find the answer in our FAQs, call the Stop the Spread HELPline, which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The toll-free number is 888-886-3131. And don’t forget, many of your questions can be answered here. 

Stay safe, and please remember that the only vaccine currently available for COVID-19 is solidarity.