Dear UD Community,

We are at a decisive moment in our fight against COVID-19 at the University of Delaware. With the high number of positive cases in the first two weeks of this semester, we are on track to quickly exceed the number in the entire fall semester.

This spike in COVID-19 cases is directly linked to the behavior of students in campus dining halls, in off-campus housing and in local bars and restaurants, where too many people are gathering without following health protocols.

By taking important steps now — especially limiting gatherings and participating in testing — we can slow the spread of the virus and resume our plans for the spring semester.

If the situation does not improve in the next few days, even more restrictive measures could be necessary:

• On-campus students would be required to remain in residence halls for all but essential activities
• Off-campus students would be prohibited from coming onto campus except for research and work responsibilities
• Access to the student centers, the Carpenter Sports Building (Little Bob) and other privileges would be restricted
• All classes would temporarily move online
• Athletic practices and competitions would be suspended

To help avoid these additional restrictions, we must all work together now.

Off-campus students who have not been tested this week are urged to get tested this weekend at one of the various locations in the nearby community, including drive-up testing 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday on the STAR Campus.

UD Police and Newark Police are increasing patrols to enforce the city’s limitations on gatherings at private residences (10 people indoors and 20 people outdoors). We encourage students to continue reporting off-campus concerns to police directly or through the LiveSafe app.

Since the fall, more than 450 students have been referred to the University’s Office of Student Conduct for violations related to COVID-19. Students have received a variety of educational and accountability sanctions, including suspension. Please note that suspended students will still be financially responsible for the entire semester since we are past the add/drop deadline.

It is absolutely imperative that we all take responsibility for the health and safety of ourselves and each other by following the rules and consistently practicing the behaviors that we know are effective:

• Wear a face covering
• Avoid gathering in large groups
• Wash your hands frequently
• Get tested frequently

Students are encouraged to limit their activities this weekend. Students should not mingle outside of their “household” units, should not host large gatherings and should use takeout when dining at local restaurants. Students may take advantage of activities, events and organizations that can be enjoyed remotely, which are listed on the Student Life Virtual Hub.

Also, please know that wellbeing services and support are available. The Center for Counseling and Student Development is open and available remotely, and 24/7 mental health support remains available on the UD Helpline at 302-831-1001 for any student in need of someone to talk to.

Thank you for doing your part to keep the University of Delaware community safe and healthy.