COVID-19 Update - Oct. 2

Dear JMU Family,

Update on Cases
The university observed 1 new positive case of COVID-19 at the Health Center yesterday as well as 2 self-reported cases, with 13 becoming considered “recovered,” meaning they were diagnosed as positive more than 10 days ago and are no longer infectious. This puts the number of active cases at 50. The number of open quarantine and isolation beds is now at 166 out of 192. More information can be found on the university’s Stop the Spread dashboard. While our situation continues to improve, individuals must continue to follow public health guidance by wearing masks, maintaining physical distance and washing hands frequently.

Social Bubbles
As many students who left campus early in September return to campus this weekend, we all need to do our part to stay safe so that in-person and hybrid learning can continue through Thanksgiving break. Did you know social bubbles are a great way to maintain in-person connections in a safe and responsible way? Watch this video to learn more about social bubbles and how to create your own.

Rapid Testing
The University Health Center now has rapid testing available for our students. While rapid testing is an important diagnostic tool, it is not the most appropriate option for every situation. UHC medical staff will determine which type of test is appropriate based upon a variety of factors, including presence and duration of symptoms, severity of illness and testing resources available. The process for being tested remains the same. Call 540-568-6178 to make an appointment.

COVID-19 or the Flu?
COVID-19 and influenza are both viral respiratory illnesses, making it hard to tell the difference based on symptoms alone. Experts are learning more every day, but see what we already know about the differences between COVID-19 and the flu here. Also, stop by the Flu Shot Clinic at the Student Success Center, Room 1075, today between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., or the Festival Highlands Room on Monday, Oct. 5, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Flu Shot Clinics will continue for the rest of the semester. More information can be found here.

JMU Community Split on Return to In-Person Learning
The Breeze, reporting on the results of a university form asking for input on plans to return to in-person and hybrid learning, found that the JMU community is evenly split on the issue. Read more here. 

Stop the Spread HELPline
If students and their families 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. Call center agents also will be answering questions sent to covid19@jmu.edu, and you can submit questions via a form on the Stop the Spread site.

Stay safe, and please remember that the only vaccine currently available for COVID-19 is solidarity. And download the COVIDWISE app!