Western University has decided to hit the pause button on things like sports and in-person club meetings as it deals with a growing number of students with COVID-19.
In a statement released Thursday, the university said it has learned that 28 of its students have now tested positive for the virus. It said many of them are off-campus. One is in residence and is currently self-isolating. Affected students, including those who had close contact with the infected student in residence, have been notified.
“These numbers are very concerning,” Western President Alan Shepard said in the statement. “Creating community is one of Western’s strengths, and we know our students desperately want to have some on-campus experiences. But, unfortunately, this development means we will be limiting those experiences.”
The university said it is suspending athletics and recreation activities, as well as in-person student club meetings. Those meetings will be allowed to be held virtually. Access to libraries and other University buildings is being restricted.
In Thursday's statement, Shepard expressed concern about students attending parties, at which there seems to be little in the way of physical distancing and adherence to other public health guidelines.
“We are counting on all our students to share the responsibility for keeping the Western community – and the city of London – safe and healthy. A big part of that is avoiding large gatherings, particularly house parties, and practicing proper physical distancing,” he said. “We expect our students to comply with public health rules. We’re asking them not to host parties. Not to attend parties. Limiting social activities to your roommates and significant others will help stop the spread of the virus. Common sense is critical.”
In the event students do not heed this request, the university is planning to "use the full force of the code of student conduct should students risk the health and safety of the community through their actions," the statement said.
Shepard said, while he knows students enjoy being together, the risks are very real and this is a time for students to stay in their homes or residences and to keep their social circles small.
