Leading the fight against COVID-19

Because you are wearing masks, staying 6 feet apart and practicing good hygiene, Ohio State continues to be a leader in fighting COVID-19, and we are able to continue to be on campus together living, working, researching, teaching and learning.

This month, the university expanded testing to include selected asymptomatic faculty and staff whose job responsibilities require them to have consistent or sustained in-person contact with other members of our university community. Employees eligible for this program will receive an email from the university explaining the process.

We continue to build on our existing protocols, which include regular testing of undergraduate, graduate and professional students, and opportunities for faculty and staff to voluntarily receive a COVID-19 test. To be more efficient and effective, we announced that the university will transition student surveillance testing to an on-campus lab and scheduling/results delivery tool. This change will allow us to test and process results more quickly and affordably, and further improve the experience at our Jesse Owens North testing facility. More information is on the Safe and Healthy Buckeyes website.

Overall, we have conducted more than 146,000 tests. The seven-day average positivity rate for all students has declined for more than a month and is now at 0.8%. We are keeping a close eye on developments in the communities in which our campuses are located. Last Thursday, Franklin County moved from orange to red in the Ohio Public Health Advisory System. We must remain vigilant in following our Safe and Healthy Buckeyes requirements to ensure we can continue living and learning together.

Please also remember that it is flu season. With COVID-19 and the flu circulating at the same time, it is important to get a flu shot as soon as you are able. Information and guidance on where to get a flu shot are available on the Safe and Healthy Buckeyes website.