The Wabash community this week has been struck by a new wave of COVID- 19 infections, prompting campus-wide caution after an extended period with relatively few cases. At the time of writing, there are 17 confirmed student cases spread across seven living units.
Wabash student takes recommended precautions by wearing a mask during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Courtesy of Communications and Marketing.
“After a long quiet period, we are seeing an uptick in COVID infections on campus,” said Dean of Students Gregory Redding in an all-campus email. “Since most of us are out of practice with how to react to symptoms or possible exposure, please take a moment to review the protocols at the College’s coronavirus Information page.”
Several fraternities have reported increased case numbers, with Phi Delta Theta and Theta Delta Chi hit particularly hard. A handful of faculty members and staff have also tested positive.
“COVID is not over— there are still about 500 people dying of it in the U.S. daily, about twice the number we see during a very bad flu season,” said Dr. John Roberts ’83, one of the College’s physicians. “While the vast majority of students will not suffer severe disease or lasting effects (Long-COVID), we should all remember that we are members of a larger community and, as such, we have a responsibility to look out for everyone’s health.”
Despite the uptick of cases on campus, state- wide figures remain low. According to data from the Indiana Department of Health, Indiana is averaging 546 new cases per day. These numbers are, however, provisional, and only reflect cases reported to the IDOH.
The College has reiterated the importance of preventive measures to slow the spread of the virus. Symptomatic students are encouraged to mask up, limit contact with others and contact the Student Health Center for testing information. There are also home test kits available on the first floor of the Lilly Library.
“We ask that everyone be vigilant and, at least for the time being, be cognizant of exposure to others, particularly those who are ill or may have an increased risk of severe infection.”
Dr. John Roberts
“We ask that everyone be vigilant and, at least for the time being, be cognizant of exposure to others, particularly those who are ill or may have an increased risk of severe infection,” said Dr. Roberts. “If you have to participate in a group setting, please con- sider wearing a good-quality respirator. Try to temporarily refrain from going to large parties or other indoor events until we are sure the outbreak on campus has peaked.”