Virus Action Team update: Current and future conditions regarding COVID-19

As indicated on GVSU’s data dashboard, COVID-19 case numbers in the Grand Valley community remain low, which is consistent with recent statistics from the State of Michigan. 

Grand Valley is experiencing another lull of new cases now, as was the case in October and in June, and we have moved back to Alert Level 2. Thank you to all who continue to do what is needed to mitigate the spread of the virus at GVSU. 

Public health experts are warning of a possible surge in March, due to new variants of the virus. There have already been a few contained areas in Michigan that have experienced recent upticks in cases. Therefore, it is important to continue safety protocols.

• Wear appropriate face coverings, and practice social distancing and good hygiene.
• Complete the daily online self-assessment.
• Avoid large gatherings.
• Participate in on-campus testing when invited. 

Regular testing of the Grand Valley community is a critical part of our efforts to control the spread of COVID on campus. Nearly 50,000 tests have been administered since August, identifying more than 800 positive cases.

Grand Valley will soon be expanding testing capabilities with additional testing hours and a quicker turnaround time for test results. More information will be included in Virus Action Team emails in the weeks to come.

The use of face coverings and social distancing are the best defenses against the virus. Now is not the time to relax these mitigation efforts just because there is a lull in cases. Continued vigilance can help prevent a potential third surge.