University Health Services has reported a total of 14 positive cases during the week of November 23-29 (including 13 undergrads) out of 3,011 tests conducted, reflecting increased positive test results at colleges and universities and in cities and towns nationwide. The University’s weekly community positivity rate stands at 0.59%. The state’s average is currently 3.0%.

Currently, there are 76 BC undergraduates in isolation—57 in University isolation housing and 19 recovering at home. A total of 276 undergraduates have recovered and returned to normal activities.

Since testing began on August 16, University Health Services has conducted 112,437 tests of BC community members with a total of 371 positive cases reported. Among undergrads, UHS has conducted 83,519 tests with 352 positives. The University’s cumulative positivity rate is 0.33%.

By comparison, Boston University has reported 406 positive cases, University of Massachusetts-Amherst 409, Northeastern University 339, Providence College 386, and the University of Notre Dame 1,754.

According to the Thanksgiving Travel Survey issued to BC students, approximately half of the BC undergraduate population stated their intention to return to their home state for Thanksgiving and complete their remaining classes and final exams remotely. Those choosing to stay at Boston College or elsewhere within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts during Thanksgiving break may complete the semester on campus.  

As reported, all campus residence halls will close for the semester on the last day of exams, scheduled for December 21, and will reopen at the start of the second semester on January 28. All students, faculty, and staff who plan to be on campus during the spring semester must be tested before classes resume.

University Communications | November 24, 2020