COVID-19 Update: July 9, 2020

This week we have been investigating a couple of COVID-related incidents. Overall, four Jacksonville State University students tested positive for COVID-19. These cases came from two separate events; one was on campus, and the other off campus. One of the student-cases had dinner at a local restaurant with two friends. Subsequently, they found out that their server at the restaurant had COVID-19. The other three student-cases came from an on-campus fireworks event that several of them attended together. Seven students were exposed to two people who tested positive. One of those exposed became ill and has since tested positive.

As many of you know, Calhoun County is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases. Over the past 14 days, the county has recorded 208 new cases. There have been 9 patients admitted to the local hospitals in the past week. Accordingly, members of the Task Force met today to discuss the current situation and the upward trend in COVID-19. We decided to change next week’s Orientation program (July 13th-17th) from in-person to virtual. Our Vice President for Student Affairs will be reaching out to all parties concerned on this change and coordinating instructions. Other events planned for next week are being discussed now. If changes to those events are warranted, notifications will be made quickly.

Finally, we would like to remind you that the threat of COVID-19 is all around us. This is no time to drop your guard. Please limit your travel and activities to those things that are essential. Wear a mask or face covering when out in public. Scientific studies have shown that wearing a mask or face covering while maintaining social distance will greatly limit the spread of this virus.

Sincerely,
Dr. Jeff Ryan
Dr. Oye Akisanya
Dr. Phyllis Waits
COVID-19 Task Force