University Health Services reported a total of 63 positive cases during the week of November 16-22 (including 60 undergrads) out of 10,981 tests conducted, reflecting increased positive test results at colleges and universities and in cities and towns nationwide.
Despite the increase, the University’s weekly community positivity rate was 0.57 %, compared to the state average of 3.0%. The City of Boston’s weekly community positivity rate stands at 3.44 %.
Currently, there are 64 BC undergraduates in isolation—52 in University isolation housing and 12 recovering at home. A total of 271 undergraduates have recovered and returned to normal activities.
Since testing began on August 16, University Health Services has conducted 109,182 tests of BC community members with a total of 353 positive cases reported. Among undergrads, UHS has conducted 81,142 tests with 335 positives. The University’s cumulative positivity rate remains at 0.32%.
By comparison, Boston University has reported 405 positive cases, University of Massachusetts-Amherst 401, Northeastern University 334, Providence College 378, and the University of Notre Dame 1,742.
According to the Thanksgiving Travel Survey issued to 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 23, 2020