Additional Measures Announced to Reduce Social Transmission of COVID Virus

Nov 9, 2020 3:00 PM

We are announcing a series of interim measures to address the potential social transmission of the virus in large contact areas on campus, effective at 5 p.m. today, Monday, Nov. 9.

This move is in response to increases in some of our COVID-19 indicators, including the increase in cases in our surrounding community, the incidence rate (new cases) of self-reported positive tests, and, the prevalence rate of active cases in isolation. These factors are combined with the governor’s guidance about the transmission of the virus in social settings being the number one cause of new cases.  

Other indicators (including surveillance testing and wastewater testing) are continuing within established parameters, but we will continue to monitor all indicators to determine if additional measures may be required. We have another round of surveillance testing scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 10.

These are the measures being taken as of 5 p.m. today:

  • Cordts PE Center indoor activity areas will be closed for the rest of the semester. This includes the indoor gyms, indoor cardio and weight rooms, climbing wall, swimming pool. Outdoor activity areas, including the track, outdoor weight training and tennis courts will remain open.
  • Lane University Center's game room, fitness center and lounges are closed for public use for the rest for the semester. Scheduled socially distanced meetings will continue.
  • Common areas and lounges in the residence halls will be closed for the rest of the semester.
  • Food locations at Chesapeake Dining Hall, Appalachian Station and College Avenue will be open for grab-and-go food options only. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at all sites.
  • Classes will continue in their current blended or online formats. Faculty are reminded to require students to show their COVID-10 check-in badge for in-person periods. Computer labs and Ort Library will remain open.

Health officials continue to stress that social and family gatherings, even small ones, are the number one cause of the current spread of the virus. This is especially true in unmasked and undistanced gatherings.It continues to be vital that we all wear our masks, practice social distancing, wash our hands and monitor and report our symptoms through the check-in app at the FSU COVID Check-In Portal.