ISU coronavirus total now over 1,000

Posted on September 1, 2020
Illinois public universities record and report their COVID data differently, and at this point, Illinois State is doing more widespread testing than any state university in Illinois with the exception of the University of Illinois, according to a news release. (Photo courtesy Illinois State University)

 

By Neil Doyle

NORMAL – Illinois State University Tuesday announced 51 additional students have tested positive for COVID-19.

Voluntary testing on campus started August 17, and so far, the university has reported 1,023 positive cases. ISU’s seven-day rolling positivity rate is 23.8%.

The university said they’ve had great compliance with face coverings and social distancing on campus, but they want students to remember that should continue off campus.

“We continue to work with property management companies, the town of Normal, and the health department to really foster our message as well,” ISU spokesperson Eric Jome told our news partner HOI ABC.

According to a news release, ISU Vice President for Student Affairs Levester Johnson said there are no plans at this time to close the residence halls. “Right now, more than 80 percent of those testing positive are living off campus and of those students living in on-campus housing, only 2 percent are currently in on-campus isolation.” he said. “The residence halls have implemented a variety of measures to further support the health and wellness of our on-campus residents.”

To help curb the spread of the virus, Normal Mayor Chris Koos issued two emergency orders. The first limits gatherings to 10 people on and near the ISU campus. The second requires restaurants and bars to only serve people who are seated. Those who don’t follow the orders could face possible fines. The orders expire after 48 hours, but the Normal Town Council will vote to make them temporary ordinances at their special meeting Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, Illinois Wesleyan University Monday announced 16 more students have tested positive for COVID, bringing IWU’s total to 75,

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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