COVID-19 Update - Sept. 14
JMU NewsDear JMU Family,
Update on Cases
Over Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the university observed 54 new positive cases of COVID-19, with 285 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 increased to 56, and the percentage of positive test results continues to fall. More information can be found on the University Health Center 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.
New Stop the Spread Helpline
Beginning today, Monday, Sept. 14, the university is operating a Stop the Spread Helpline, which will be 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.
Contact Tracing Mobile App
The university urges all members of the community to download Virginia’s free COVIDWISE Exposure Notifications app to help protect our community. The Virginia Department of Health is offering the app, which will inform users if they have been in close contact with a person who has tested positive. The technology was developed by Apple and Google and is designed to track exposure while also protecting privacy. The more of us who install COVIDWISE on our phones, the more effective it will be. Check here for more information, or go directly to the app store to download.
Dates to Remember
For years, the deadline to withdraw from JMU without financial penalty has been Sept. 15, much later than most universities. This date remains in place this year for a 100% refund. But in an effort to help families during these uncertain and challenging times, students who submit their completed Non-returning/Leave of Absence form to the Office of the Registrar between Sept. 16, 2020, and Oct. 10, 2020, will receive a 75% refund of tuition and mandatory fees. For more information, visit the University Business Office website.
Stay safe and please remember that the only vaccine currently available for COVID-19 is solidarity.