U-M COVID-19 Data

Over the past week U-M COVID-19 student case counts have noticeably decreased. During this same time, campus testing continues to increase with lowered percent positivity rates. University officials report the only Campus Response Metric currently being met is the local community metric for Washtenaw County of more than 70 new cases per million, and due to a continued trend of lower case counts in the community the current rate is improving toward that threshold. The ResponsiBLUE app was updated Feb. 22 to now include information that identifies students assigned to Quarantine and Isolation. In addition, as part of the screening process a question related to recent international travel was added. Download or update the app for the latest version.

U-M COVID-19 case counts have plateaued in an elevated state while the Washtenaw County cases continue to trend downward resulting in U-M representing a larger percentage of the cases. It is essential that all students cooperate fully with the case investigation and contact tracing process to help reduce spread of COVID and protect the community. Beginning next week, the ResponsiBLUE app will be updated to include information that identifies students assigned to Quarantine and Isolation. In addition, as part of the screening process a question related to recent international travel will be added.

Nationwide there has been a decrease in COVID-19 activity, however, COVID-19 cases among the U-M student population continue to rise. The majority of current U-M cases are related to students, and these now represent 62% of the total cases in Washtenaw County. University officials report the only Campus Response Metric currently being met is the local community metric for Washtenaw County of more than 70 new cases per million. However, at the current rate of new cases the campus case investigation resources are being significantly strained. Public Health officials have adopted new guidance from the CDC which allows fully vaccinated individuals to avoid quarantine after possible exposures if they are within 90 days of vaccine administration. The U-M community is encouraged to continue to get tested regularly through U-M resources; choose to gather virtually, outdoors or in small gatherings (ten or fewer when indoors); wear face coverings; and practice social distancing. Individuals who are symptomatic should get tested through University Health Services or Occupational Health Services.

U-M officials are reporting an increase in positive cases among off campus students this week, linked primarily to social gatherings. The U-M community is encouraged to continue to get tested regularly through U-M resources, avoid social gatherings, wear face coverings properly (tightly fitted around nose and under chin) and practice social distancing. Individuals who are symptomatic should get tested through University Health Services or Occupational Health Services. U-M public health leaders and the Washtenaw County Health Department are reviewing the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding quarantine for those who are vaccinated.

U-M officials report that following the recent stay-in-place recommendation for students there has been a downward trend with regard to new positive COVID-19 cases, but still remains elevated. The slowed trend has allowed Public Health Response teams to catch up with case investigation and contact tracing. Majority of current cases are related to students, and these now represent 48% of the total cases in Washtenaw County. Cases are spread across all age groups of students (first year - graduate) supporting the university’s recent shift to expand weekly mandatory COVID-19 testing to all graduate and professional students living on or coming to campus to access resources starting this week. Community members arriving in the Ann Arbor area following travel are reminded to get tested within 72 hours of arrival. The U-M community is encouraged to continue to get tested regularly through U-M resources, avoid social gatherings, wear face coverings and practice social distancing. Individuals who are symptomatic should get tested through University Health Services or Occupational Health Services.

Starting the week of Feb. 7, weekly COVID-19 testing will become mandatory for all graduate and professional students living, learning, teaching, working or coming to campus to access resources. This same requirement remains in place for undergraduates and testing is required regardless of vaccination status. Additionally, U-M Athletics has begun resuming injury-prevention activities and sports-specific training for student-athletes. This phased re-acclimatization schedule was developed in collaboration with state, county and campus medical experts, and will prepare for a return to organized practices in anticipation of resuming competition on a sport-by-sport basis the week of Feb. 8. All students are encouraged to be tested weekly using U-M testing resources (Community Sampling and Tracking Program if asymptomatic and University Health Service if symptomatic). For a limited time, CSTP testing is being offered to the Ann Arbor community who reside near the U-M Ann Arbor campus. The Washtenaw County Health Department’s stay-in-place recommendation for all U-M students on and off campus in Washtenaw County remains in place through 11:59 p.m. Feb. 7.

U-M officials report COVID-19 cases associated with U-M have increased and now represent 34% of the total cases in Washtenaw County. A total of 11 off-campus group living residences are under house-wide quarantine due to positive cases among residents or in-person gatherings during the stay-in-place recommendation. Pop-up testing is being arranged for those in quarantine to test on day 5 of their 14-day quarantine period. All students are encouraged to be tested weekly using U-M testing resources (Community Sampling and Tracking Program if asymptomatic and University Health Service if symptomatic). For a limited time CSTP testing is being offered to the Ann Arbor community who reside near the U-M Ann Arbor campus. The Washtenaw County Health Department’s stay-in-place recommendation for all U-M students (undergraduate, graduate and professional) on and off-campus in Washtenaw County remains in place through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 7.

The Washtenaw County Health Department’s stay in place recommendation for all U-M students (undergraduate, graduate and professional) on and off campus in Washtenaw County remains in place through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 7. The ResponsiBLUE app has been updated with more user features. U-M officials report a total of five off-campus group living residences are experiencing positive cases among residents and are currently under house-wide quarantine. Pop-up testing is being arranged for those in quarantine to test on day 5 of their 14-day quarantine period. All students are encouraged to be tested weekly using U-M testing resources (Community Sampling and Tracking Program if asymptomatic and University Health Service if symptomatic).

The Washtenaw County Health Department has issued recommendations directing all U-M students (undergraduate, graduate and professional) on and off campus in Washtenaw County to “stay in place” and avoid all gatherings effective immediately through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 7. More stringent actions may be necessary if this outbreak continues to grow and additional variant clusters are identified. Students are encouraged to get tested weekly through U-M and remain at their current address with limited exceptions.

Capacity to perform asymptomatic COVID-19 testing for the U-M community remains readily available with approximately 12,400 tests completed last week on campus through the Community Sampling & Tracking Program. While Washtenaw County cases overall are decreasing, COVID-19 cases associated with U-M have increased and now represent 21% of the total cases in the county. U-M officials report four off-campus group living residences are experiencing positive cases among residents and are currently under house-wide quarantine. Pop-up testing is being arranged for those in quarantine to test on day 5 of their 14-day quarantine period. In addition, two cases have been identified in Munger Graduate Residences and residents are instructed to get tested today through CSTP. All students are encouraged to be tested weekly using U-M testing resources (UHS if symptomatic and CSTP if asymptomatic). Because of the presence of the variant in the U-M community, U-M has paused the option for students to end quarantine earlier than the recommended 14 days. In addition, all students are reminded that the coronavirus is spread from person to person so they should continue to avoid gatherings and wear masks when around others. COVID-19 cases reported on the dashboard had previously included those reported by students who tested positive between 11/26/20 and 1/17/21, but were not in Ann Arbor at the time. Approximately 100 of these cases have been removed from the dashboard totals.

The university is working closely with state and local public health officials to carefully consider proactive and additional mitigation measures to address the B.1.1.7 variant of COVID-19. This weekend, the university learned of additional cases that are positive for the B.1.1.7 variant, and this number may continue to rise. All of these cases have been investigated and the individuals and their contacts are in isolation or quarantine. For more information, please see the latest email shared with the campus community.

Two additional individuals associated with the University of Michigan Ann Arbor community have tested positive for the COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.7., bringing the total of cases to 5. All individuals are in isolation and are experiencing no symptoms or mild symptoms. Additionally, all close contacts have been identified, tested and are currently in quarantine. Washtenaw County Health Department has identified a possible public health exposure and recommends immediate testing if you visited either of the two potential exposure locations at specified times on Jan. 17. See additional details from WCHD. University health officials are working closely with state and local public health partners and continue to recommend that all undergraduate and graduate students in the Ann Arbor area be tested weekly to help slow the spread and contain the virus.

U-M officials report testing among the student population has increased as the start of the term gets underway. Capacity for testing of asymptomatic individuals across the U-M community remains high with plenty of appointments available through a simple two-step process: 1) Register/or update your information, and 2) Select test time/date. To help slow the spread of COVID-19 all U-M students are encouraged to be tested weekly and to download and use the ResponsiBLUE app that includes both a daily symptom checker and testing verification status for all undergraduate students. Vaccine data has been added to the dashboard and is for Phase 1a and Phase 1b.

Three individuals in the University of Michigan Ann Arbor community have tested positive for the COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.7. This includes the first known case of the variant identified earlier by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. All identified cases are connected. All individuals are in isolation and are experiencing no symptoms or mild symptoms. Additionally, all close contacts have been identified, tested and are currently in quarantine. The variant strain was identified as a result of regular university testing followed by additional testing in U-M labs to identify it as the B.1.1.7 variant. University health officials are working closely with state and local public health partners and continue to recommend that all undergraduate and graduate students in the Ann Arbor area (even if all classes are remote) be tested weekly to help slow the spread and contain the virus. More details are in this University Record story: https://myumi.ch/jxqqo

University officials report that two of the Campus Response Metrics are currently being met: 1) the local community metric for Washtenaw County of more than 70 new cases per million, and 2) 5 days of sustained increases in cases in the U-M community. The increase in case counts is not unexpected with faculty, staff and students returning to the community and the marked increase in testing of students. Over the past week U-M associated COVID-19 cases represented 6% of the total cases in the county. With the COVID variant present in Washtenaw county, all students in the U-M community are encouraged to be tested weekly through U-M. Testing is specifically recommended within 72 hours of arrival to campus or the Ann Arbor area. The U-M community is directed to follow public health best practices (use ResponsiBLUE daily, avoid social gatherings, wear a mask, wash hands, practice social distancing) and seek medical evaluation and testing if symptomatic. A message was sent to the U-M community on Jan. 17 to share guidance and recommendations. U-M Residence Hall case data on the Maize and Blueprint dashboard resumes today for winter term.

Students returning to campus and the Ann Arbor area are asked to sign up for COVID-19 testing within 72 hours of arrival in a two-step process: 1) Register/or update your information, and 2) Select test time/date. Read the FAQs about the weekly testing requirements for undergraduates, including how vaccination and previous positive tests apply. The winter 2021 semester pre-arrival testing results are now summarized on the COVID-19 dashboard. The fall 2020 semester pre-arrival testing results are archived on the About the Data page.

Consistent with what has been observed across the state, activity of the virus in Washtenaw County has plateaued above 200 new cases per million per day (mistartmap.info). The 7-day average of cases in students has increased since the recent holidays. U-M students account for 4% of the positive cases being reported in the community. U-M asymptomatic COVID-19 testing sites are open and available for routine testing for all students, faculty and staff on the Ann Arbor campus. Register, or update existing registration, and sign up for routine testing here. Reminder for the U-M community to download and use ResponsiBLUE every day to check for COVID-19 symptoms. There is a new version of the App now available on the Apple and Google stores that provides for all undergraduate students on the Ann Arbor campus a visual display of their weekly COVID-19 testing verification. Distribution of the COVID-19 vaccination continues for those in priority groups identified by the state as Phase 1A and vaccine scheduling will soon begin for Phase 1B. All members of the U-M community - whether interested in receiving the vaccine or not - are asked to complete the vaccine signup survey, Blue Queue, here.

University officials report that the only Campus Response Metric currently being met is the local community metric for Washtenaw County of more than 70 new cases per million. U-M related cases (students and employees) have decreased, likely the result of a decreased population on campus in recent weeks. U-M associated COVID-19 cases represent 3% of the total cases in the county. Distribution of the COVID-19 vaccination continues for those in priority groups identified by the State as Phase 1a. These include persons serving in health care settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials and are unable to work from home, as well as residents in long-term care facilities. In preparation for distribution to the campus community, all members of the U-M community - whether interested in receiving the vaccine or not - are encouraged to complete the vaccine signup survey, Blue Queue, here.

The average daily case rate of COVID-19 per million within Washtenaw County has dropped, but remains above the target threshold. The percentage of county cases that involve U-M students continues to decrease and is now under 5%. The overall daily positivity rate for testing in the county continues to be higher than preferred but has plateaued. University officials have improved their ability to attribute cases to specific residence halls on the COVID-19 dashboard. Following this change today (Dec. 18), total case counts since August 21 have increased by 1 to 13 for specific residence halls. Residence halls are currently closed for Winter Break. Data updates for specific residence halls will resume after they reopen on Jan. 17, 2021. Dashboard narrative updates will pause for the remainder of 2020 and resume on Jan. 5, 2021.

U-M officials report additional COVID-19 cases, but there have been no sustained increases in daily counts. This past week U-M students accounted for just 5% of all cases in Washtenaw County. The campus public health teams also continue to exceed targets for prompt response times to case investigation and contact tracing. Michigan Medicine continues to distribute the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccines with the immediate focus on health-care providers identified by state and federal guidelines for the initial phase of the rollout. It remains unclear when U-M will receive additional supplies of the vaccine. However, in preparation for distribution to the campus community, all members of the U-M community are encouraged to complete the vaccine signup survey here.

University officials report that the only Campus Response Metric currently being met is the local community metric for Washtenaw County of more than 70 new cases per million. Even though the rate has come down over the past couple of weeks there is still a high amount of community transmission occurring in the local community. U-M student COVID-19 cases represent less than 10% of the total cases in the county. The local positivity rate also remains high at nearly 9% (but under the campus metric threshold of 10%). U-M officials continue planning for receipt and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine in a phased approach. The U-M community is reminded to remain vigilant in efforts to reduce spread: wear a face covering, practice social distancing, avoid social gatherings and stay home when sick.

University officials have improved their ability to deduplicate results on the COVID-19 dashboard in an update of the data implemented today. As a result of this improvement test counts have decreased by approximately 18,000 and COVID-19 case counts have decreased by 44 since March. The changes are part of a continued effort to enhance data tracking related to COVID-19 within the university community.

COVID-19 activity on the Ann Arbor camps continues to decrease with positivity rates that remain low. Campus Clinical and Public Health teams remain available for evaluation of individuals presenting with symptoms following the Thanksgiving holiday and for case investigation of any campus affiliate testing positive. University officials report currently the only Campus Response Metric being met is the local community metric for Washtenaw County of more than 70 new cases per million. U-M student COVID-19 cases represent less than 10% of the total cases in the county. Following review of new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding close contact exposure and quarantine period, the Washtenaw County Health Department and U-M Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) continue to recommend 14 days of quarantine to monitor for the development of symptoms. Seek care if symptoms develop. For some cases the duration of quarantine may be shortened to 10 days. The individual case investigator will make these determinations which may not apply to individuals in higher risk situations. The U-M community is reminded to remain vigilant in efforts to reduce spread: wear a face covering, practice social distancing, avoid social gatherings and stay home when sick.

COVID-19 activity on the Ann Arbor campus has slowed considerably around the Thanksgiving holiday break. The U-M community is reminded to remain vigilant in efforts to reduce spread: wear a face covering, practice social distancing, avoid social gatherings and stay home when sick. Fall semester surveillance and departure COVID-19 testing remains available to the U-M community through December 18. Individuals can sign up here.

Departure testing has been well received with more than 9,600 students tested since Nov. 9. Fortunately among this cohort of asymptomatic students the positivity rate has been very low. As a result the case investigation and contact tracing teams have continued to provide prompt follow up of positive cases and occupancy within quarantine and isolation spaces remains at less than 15% of capacity. Demand for departure testing by students remains high and 1,000 additional departure testing appointments have been added for this weekend. Students can sign up here to arrange a departure test. Even with the increased level of testing there has not been an associated spike in new cases; U-M students now represent less than 15% of the Washtenaw county cases. U-M officials urge all students to practice enhanced social distancing and avoid social gatherings prior to travel. This is an expectation of U-M and of the State of Michigan. It's also extremely important to wear a face covering, and stay home and seek testing when sick.

Testing of students on campus continues to increase at the same time the number of COVID-19 cases increases statewide. Departure testing dates have been added to the schedule for this week for students preparing to leave campus. Departure testing will be available through Dec. 8 with additional dates added weekly. Statewide, the positivity rate is approaching 15% with Washtenaw County following a similar path with a positivity rate of 7%. Test positivity in U-M students is currently low, partially due to increased test volume related to departure testing. Even with the increased testing volume the average daily number of tests has remained steady in this group. U-M COVID cases represent about 20% of the total cases in the county. Testing is just one component of an effective mitigation strategy. U-M officials urge all students to practice enhanced social distancing and avoid social gatherings prior to travel. This is an expectation of U-M and of the State of Michigan.It's also extremely important to wear a face covering, and stay home and seek testing when sick.

Cases of COVID-19 are increasing exponentially across the state and the number of people being hospitalized is rising. University officials report currently the only Campus Response Metric being met is the local community metric for Washtenaw County more than 70 new cases per million. While there had been a slight increase in the number of new student cases after the Stay in Place order was lifted, that has plateaued (no sustained increase at this time). Departure testing continues to be available and accessible for students leaving campus. U-M officials encourage students to sign up for slots available this weekend and next week. Testing is one piece of the mitigation strategy. It's also extremely important to wear a face covering, practice social distancing, avoid social gatherings and stay home when sick. The expectation is that students practice enhanced social distance before leaving campus; this is an expectation of the University of Michigan and of the State of Michigan. A cluster has been identified in South Quad; students who tested positive are in isolation and those identified as close contacts are now under quarantine. U-M officials remind all students that they may isolate or quarantine in U-M Quarantine/Isolation Housing or at their permanent residence, if they can travel there safely.

Consistent with what is being observed in the surrounding community and the state, U-M officials also report a rise in positive cases within the U-M community (although U-M cases now account for <25% of the new cases in the county being reported). There have been some clusters identified from social gatherings that occurred over the Halloween weekend involving professional and graduate students. The students are in isolation and those identified as close contacts are now under quarantine. In order to further limit spread, U-M officials urge the community to follow the City of Ann Arbor ordinance to restrict gatherings to no more than 25 outside and 10 inside, along with the consistent use of face coverings. U-M's Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) has added resources to assist with case management. Students departing from campus on Nov. 20 are expected to complete U-M’s departure testing protocol; this is a requirement for students living in Michigan Housing residence halls. Students must sign up for testing, which is occurring this week through Nov. 16. It’s essential for the U-M community to continue controlling the spread of COVID-19 by wearing face coverings, practicing social distancing and staying home when sick. The U-M community also is strongly encouraged to continue daily use of the ResponsiBLUE app.

University officials report currently the only Campus Response Metric being met is the local community metric for Washtenaw County of more than 70 new cases per million. There has been a steady drop in student cases since Oct. 21, likely a reflection of the Washtenaw County Health Department Stay in Place order (Oct. 20 - Nov. 3) for undergraduate students. The test positivity rate on campus remains well below the threshold and the actual rate of testing for students, faculty and staff has increased over the past several weeks. Additional specimen collection locations have now also been added. Case investigation and contact tracing has stabilized as case counts have come down and additional investigators have come on board. U-M quarantine and isolation housing occupancy continues to decrease with less than 10 students entering daily. It is important to note that while trends affecting the campus community have improved during the recent Stay in Place order the rate of new infections is rising across the state. It’s essential for the U-M community to continue controlling the spread of COVID-19 by wearing face coverings, practicing social distancing and staying home when sick. U-M community also is strongly encouraged to continue daily use of the ResponsiBLUE app.

University officials have added more test results to its COVID-19 dashboard and provided further clarity around who has been tested in an update of the data implemented today. The changes are part of a continued effort to enhance data tracking related to COVID-19 within the university community. Additional information can be found here.

University officials continue to monitor the status of the pandemic both locally and in the surrounding region. There continue to be signs of increased activity affecting all counties with the state of Michigan. In Washtenaw County over the past week there has been a continued steady rise in the rate of new COVID-19 cases within the 30-49 age group, while the rate among 18-29 yr residents is coming down slightly. Fortunately, there has been an improved trend on utilization of quarantine and isolation space over this same period. The Washtenaw County Health Department's Stay in Place order is in effect through Nov. 3 at 7a.m. With Halloween and the first home football game this weekend, U-M officials ask students to celebrate safely from their homes and avoid gatherings. Students departing from campus are expected to complete U-M's departure testing protocol; this is a requirement for students living in Michigan Housing residence halls. In an effort to limit the spread of new cases, officials from WCHD and U-M's Environment, Health and Safety ask that students respond promptly to public health officials as they continue the challenging work of case investigation and contact tracing.

University officials will be watching campus data for the impact of the Washtenaw County order for undergraduates over the next two weeks. If you have questions about what activities are allowable under the order, please see the FAQs on the Campus Maize & Blueprint and the Washtenaw County Health Department websites. Mandatory nasal swab testing has been provided on-site to two residence halls with increases in cases over the past week. Saliva testing through the Community Sampling and Tracking Program was made universally available to all residence hall students as of Oct. 19. We ask that students register for the program the day before their test. We also are providing saliva testing to all students who choose to depart Ann Arbor to return to their permanent residence. This is mandatory for undergraduates living in residence halls; recommended for students living off campus. For more details on how to access testing and travel safely, check out the recommendations here. Additionally, as part of a continued effort to enhance data tracking related to COVID-19 within the U-M community, the university has updated to a new data system. The update allows university officials to clarify and de-duplicate a limited number of positive cases and this change has adjusted the residence hall numbers for Munger below.

Increases in COVID-19 cases among U-M students both on and off campus have heightened the pressure on university case investigators, contact tracers, and quarantine and isolation housing capacity. Yesterday, the Washtenaw County Health Department, in collaboration with U-M, issued a 14-day Stay in Place order for undergraduate students on the Ann Arbor campus effective immediately through Nov. 3 at 7a.m. Under the Washtenaw County order, undergraduate students living in on-campus, near-campus or off-campus housing in the Ann Arbor area are required to "stay in place" and remain in their current designated residence. Out of an abundance of caution, and while also making it as simple as possible for undergraduate students to comply with the order, provide choices for students and instructors, and to support those students who may choose to leave Ann Arbor and finish their semester from home, U-M took the additional step of moving more undergraduate courses to fully remote instruction for the remainder of the semester. While there is no public health or university requirement for students to leave campus at this time, for those that may choose to leave early, public health officials advise all students be tested within 7 days prior to their departure from campus. Students living in Michigan Housing are required to get tested prior to departure. Information on exit testing can be found on the following website. In addition to testing prior to departure, it also is advised that all students observe a 14-day period of enhanced social distancing upon arrival at their permanent residence.

Because of increasing numbers of cases of COVID-19 in the Mary Markley Residence Hall and the fact that a high proportion of residents have not participated in mandatory testing, the university is taking additional measures to protect all Markley residents and prevent the spread of COVID-19. In close collaboration with the Washtenaw County Health Department, the university is requiring all Markley residents not attend in-person classes and observe enhanced social distancing practices for the next 14 days. All positive cases and close contacts have been moved or are in the process of being moved to isolation or quarantine housing. Individuals who have not been tested will receive additional communication about their failure to report to testing as required. There continues to be an increase in COVID activity across the region with new cases often attributed to social gatherings both indoors and outside. All individuals on campus should continue using the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and adhere to important prevention measures such as wearing face coverings, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (indoors and outdoors) to help control the spread of COVID-19.

A number of cases of COVID-19 were identified over this past week and the previous weekend, including cases involving the residence halls. Follow-up, targeted testing identified additional asymptomatic cases. In partnership with the Washtenaw County Health Department, residents of specific floors in three of the halls that have been asked to maintain enhanced social distancing for 14 days. Some U-M students who tested positive for COVID-19 also had a number of close contacts so there has been an associated increased number of students who have been moved to quarantine housing because of these higher risk exposures. U-M is accommodating students in need of quarantine or isolation in units on North Campus as part of the university's overall inventory of quarantine and isolation housing spaces. There has been an increase in COVID activity across the region with new cases often attributed to social gatherings both indoors and outside. All individuals on campus should continue using the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and adhere to important prevention measures such as wearing face coverings, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (indoors and outdoors) to help control the spread of COVID-19.

University public health experts, in close collaboration with the Washtenaw County Health Department, are recommending 14 days of enhanced social distancing for all residents on the third floor of Mary Markley. The recommendation follows pop-up testing that identified additional positive cases of COVID-19 on the third floor. During this period of enhanced social distancing, students should not attend in-person class and are expected to reduce their contact with others, monitor their own health and not attend social gatherings. At this time, there is no evidence of additional clusters within the building. University Health Service will provide mandatory pop-up testing over the week for the remaining building residents who were not previously tested in the past 14-days. All individuals on campus should continue using the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and adhere to important prevention measures such as wearing face coverings, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (indoors and outdoors) to help control the spread of COVID-19.

U-M has now shifted to use the commercial lab LynxDX to offer a saliva-based method for asymptomatic testing through the Community Sampling & Tracking Program. At the end of last week, CSTP conducted 415 saliva-based tests at Palmer Commons location. All tests are negative. U-M is working with LynxDX to establish reporting systems to add this testing data to the dashboard (the tests from last week are not yet accounted for in the weekly report). U-M also announced the opening of an additional CSTP campus testing location at Pierpont Commons to better accommodate students, faculty and staff on North Campus. Later this week the testing team will begin a rotating on-site testing opportunity for students living in residence halls, with this week's residence hall location being Bursley Hall. U-M officials encourage the Ann Arbor campus community, and all students living in residence halls, to sign-up for the program. Additionally, the data on the number of cases in each residence hall will now be updated twice a week. Updates will be posted on Tuesday and Friday. A review of cases completed to prepare this data identified three cases that were reported in duplicate from multiple sources; this has been corrected by removing three cases previously reported from Munger, Stockwell and Mosher-Jordan.

The quarantine and isolation data for today, Oct. 12, is 136; not the previously indicated 256. Occupancy is 22.7%, not the earlier 42.7%. There was a data entry error causing a number of records to be counted twice. U-M has corrected this error and the dashboard has been updated accordingly.

University public health experts, in close collaboration with the Washtenaw County Health Department, are recommending 14 days of enhanced social distancing for all residents of two floors of West Quad and one floor of South Quad residence halls. The recommendation follows pop-up testing that identified additional positive cases of COVID-19 on the third and fourth floors of West Quad and the fifth floor of South Quad. Common areas on those floors will get enhanced cleaning. During this period of enhanced social distancing, students are expected to reduce their contact with others, monitor their own health and not attend social gatherings. Additionally, the university is recommending that during this time frame that students on the identified floors only attend classes remotely and, if they have work obligations, work remotely if possible. The university asks the affected students to continue to use the ResponsiBLUE symptom tracker daily. Separately, University Health Service will offer pop-up testing Monday evening to residents of the Mary Markley residence hall and all U-M students in Ann Arbor are encouraged to sign up for surveillance testing through the enhanced Community Sampling and Tracking Program.

Residence hall numbers have been added through the previous Saturday (as of October 3). Case numbers for residence halls now include new cases and historical probable cases, in addition to those confirmed cases reported previously.

Overall case counts have been noticeably lower this week in comparison to recent weeks. This trend is consistent at both the campus and county level. Based upon ongoing mapping of positive cases, West Quad, South Quad and Mary Markley residence halls have been identified as having small clusters of cases in specific areas (West Quad floors 3 and 4, South Quad floor 5 and Mary Markley floors 5 and 6). All known cases and identified contacts have been moved out of the residence halls while the university’s health officials continue to monitor the situation in conjunction with the Washtenaw County Health Department. These cases appear to be related to close contacts that have previously tested positive, but based upon the proximity to one another university officials have suggested targeted testing on the impacted floors of the three residence halls. Students in the designated areas were notified of the required testing and provided detailed information from University Health Services about pop-up testing that will occur near each residence hall. All individuals on campus should continue using the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and adhere to important prevention measures such as wearing face coverings, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (especially indoors) to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Continued higher than expected numbers of COVID-19 cases, primarily involving students, both on campus and in the surrounding community are observed. Based upon this trend the university has met two of its response metrics: (1) exceeding 5 days of increase in new infections (using a 7-day average) and (2) Washtenaw County disease levels exceeding 70 new cases per million. While several small clusters have been identified, none has had >100 close contacts or have exceeded capacity for contact tracing, determined in collaboration with Washtenaw County health officials. After removal of positive cases and known contacts, broader asymptomatic testing has been conducted in several residence halls as a precaution. Also, in consultation with Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) and the county health department, several large off campus houses remain under quarantine as a targeted measure in response to identified cases in these congregate living settings. Broader testing of asymptomatic individuals living in those settings has been offered also. An ongoing review of the situation is being conducted by campus and county public health officials to determine what additional mitigation strategies may be considered. Additional information on the university's metrics can be found here.

University officials continue to see an increase in positive cases this week with several cases among students living in off campus residences, many of whom are being tested at outside health centers. Environment, Health and Safety is working in collaboration with the Washtenaw County Health Department to manage the off-campus cases and provide contact tracing. It is essential that all students cooperate fully with the case investigation process to help protect the community. Case data for the residence halls also was updated today, reflecting the cumulative number of positive cases through Sept. 26. All known positive cases and close contacts in U-M Housing have been moved into quarantine or isolation. The university is offering increased surveillance testing, and in some cases required testing, for specific on-campus residences. New clusters have been identified in Mosher Jordan and Alice Lloyd. Targeted testing has been arranged for residents that live in areas of greatest concern among these residence halls. All other residents are strongly encouraged to be tested through the Community Sampling Tracking Program. Students with symptoms and those that are concerned about direct contact with recent positive cases are directed to University Health Service for evaluation and testing. All students should continue to complete the daily symptom check through the ResponsiBLUE app.

University officials have seen a significant increase in positive cases this week with the majority of the increase the result of students being tested at off-campus facilities. The university is working closely with the Washtenaw County Health Department, which is managing the off-campus cases and providing contact tracing. In addition, WCHD is now reporting confirmed cases and suspected probable cases. U-M launched its enhanced COVID-19 dashboard today to reflect new datasets, including outside testing from the county. This additional data caused a jump in cases. The majority of the cases are stemming from clusters involving students living in off-campus, congregate residences. Data for the residence halls also was updated today. These numbers reflect the cumulative number of positive COVID cases as of Sept. 19, with each new week starting on Sunday. Information for the residence halls will continue to be updated weekly. There are no new clusters within the residence halls. All known positive cases and close contacts have been moved into quarantine and isolation. Students are encouraged to be tested through the Community Sampling Tracking Program. Students with symptoms are directed to contact University Health Service.

The university is aware of positive cases involving students at three separate off campus congregate living residences. U-M's Environment, Health and Safety is working closely with the Washtenaw County Health Department to offer isolation housing for known and suspected cases, contact tracing and onsite asymptomatic testing for the residents who have been directed to quarantine. All individuals on and around campus should continue to practice social distancing, wear face coverings, wash hands and limit gathering sizes.

Regarding the cluster of cases in South Quad, all known positive cases and close contacts have been moved into quarantine and isolation. Of the remaining residents, 221 on the 6th and 8th floors were tested for coronavirus, and were all negative. University officials are in the process of following up with the remaining 23 residents who have not yet been tested. In consultation with the Washtenaw County Health Department, residents of the 6th and 8th floors will need to continue to practice enhanced social distancing until October 1. As a reminder residents can still attend in-person classes if a remote option is not available and to get food. It is also permissible to go outside and get some fresh air either for exercise, studying or to eat. All individuals on campus should continue using the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and adhere to important prevention measures such as wearing face coverings, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (especially indoors) to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Over the past few days, an uptick in positive cases has been reported among U-M students. One location of concern is South Quad where additional evaluation and prevention measures have been taken in close consultation with the Washtenaw County Health Department. All known cases and identified contacts have been moved out of the residence hall while the university’s health officials continue to monitor the situation in conjunction with the county. Some of the recent cases have included testing positive at off-site testing centers instead of the University Health Service. All positive test results do get reported to the county health department where the test is performed. Cases in Washtenaw County that are identified as involving university students are generally referred by the health department to the university public health teams for case investigation and contact tracing, but there may be delays in reporting associated with off-site testing. Prompt isolation and rapid contact tracing are key to stopping further spread on and around campus. Symptomatic students are encouraged to avoid contact with others and to either seek testing through University Health Service or promptly share outside positive test results if they are tested elsewhere. Positive test results from outside testing centers either locally or remote from campus are not currently included in the compiled data. All individuals on campus should continue using the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and adhere to important prevention measures such as wearing face coverings, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (especially indoors) to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

In close partnership Washtenaw County Health Department and U-M's Environment, Health and Safety have been continuously monitoring the situation at South Quad. Currently the 6th and 8th floors have the most cases, which has been identified as a cluster. This location remains an area of focus. All positive cases and close contacts have been moved to isolation or quarantine. The university has put forth additional proactive measures (expectation of enhanced social distancing, mandatory testing, increased cleaning of bathrooms) to prevent ongoing spread of COVID-19 within the building. More details available here: South Quad COVID Cluster 6th & 8th Floor Residents 9.17.2020. All individuals on campus, including those working and residing in South Quad, should continue using the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and adhere to general prevention measures such as wearing face coverings, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (especially indoors) to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

There have been 11 cases identified in South Quad since September 5. Nine of these cases are related to a social group of friends and roommates. All cases and close contacts have been identified and isolated/quarantined per protocol. The situation is being monitored closely by both U-M and Washtenaw County Health Department. Based on detailed case investigation in partnership with the local health department, it has been determined that broad testing at South Quad is not indicated at this time. University officials continue to encourage all students, staff and faculty that are on-campus to sign up for the U-M COVID-19 Community Sampling and Tracking Program. All individuals on campus, including those working and residing in South Quad, should continue to use the ResponsiBLUE Daily symptom tracker and to continue to practice other prevention measures such as wearing masks, social distancing, washing hands, and refraining from gatherings (especially indoors) in order to stop the spread of COVID-19.

An error in the code used to summarize the dashboard data led to the incorrect total tests and total cases to be displayed this morning. This error has been corrected.

Available case counts and testing data through the morning of September 11 have been added as of September 12. This includes cases and data from ongoing campus asymptomatic testing over the past week. Samples from the first few days of the U-M COVID-19 Sampling and Tracking Program are at the lab and will be available within the week. Visit the Monitoring and Testing page to learn more about the program and to sign up. ResponsiBLUE illness-like reports are 0.1% for students. A reminder that all cases in the city and county as identified by state and local public health officials are listed on the State and Regional Data page. Washtenaw county case level has been medium-high over the past week but this is steady from recent weeks. Visit mistartmap.info to see detailed information for any county in Michigan. As of September 8, the 7-day average of cases per day identified by the health department is 5.4 in Ann Arbor and 3.4 in Ypsilanti. Continue social distancing, wearing masks, and limiting gathering sizes, especially this weekend.

We added 12 students and 6 non-students to the dashboard for the week beginning August 30. One additional cluster of 6 cases has been identified in an off campus residence and affected students have been isolated or quarantined. Non-student cases include remote employees and exposures outside of campus. Cases are graphed by symptom onset date or specimen collection date, and so may appear in the bars for previous weeks. While the case numbers remain low, the number of contacts per case continues to be high. It is essential that students continue to practice social distancing and limit gathering sizes to help prevent further spread of COVID-19. ResponsiBLUE illness-like reports remain at 0.2% for students. Thank you to students for the big increase in ResponsiBLUE use this week. Case numbers remain level in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti and mistartmap.info is reporting a high case level of 40 new cases per million as of September 4 but remains below the overall level for our region. Michigan’s ranking has improved relative to other states and is currently ranked 38th in case incidence nationwide (COVIDActNow.org). Want to learn more about where the U-M Dashboard data comes from? Details can be found on our About page.

As of September 2, we have added 10 cases to dashboard totals so far this week; 3 of these cases have been in students. Non-student cases include remote employees and most non-student cases have been attributed to exposures outside the campus. Cases below are graphed by symptom onset date or specimen collection date, and so may appear in the bars for previous weeks. While the case numbers are low, the number of contacts has been high, with more students moving to quarantine housing. Social distancing and mask wearing continue to be essential to limit spread. ResponsiBLUE use among students has increased 400% since our last report; data shows 0.2% of responding students are reporting illness-like symptoms. Case numbers remain level in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti and mistartmap.info is reporting a medium high case level of 34 new cases per million as of August 30. Michigan’s ranking has improved relative to other states and is currently ranked 37th in case incidence nationwide (COVIDActNow.org). Want to learn more about where the U-M Dashboard data comes from? Details can be found on our new [About page](/dashboard/about-the-data

New cases include reports of 5 students and 7 employees in data posted to the dashboard in the last 2 days. Clinical testing on campus continues at a high level; the percentage of tests that are positive during the week beginning August 23 is 1.3%. ResponsiBLUE data shows that less than 0.3% of individuals are reporting illness-like symptoms. A reminder to all students faculty and staff coming to campus and all students living in residence halls to fill out ResponsiBLUE every day. If you are a student with symptoms, contact University Health Service (UHS) and faculty of staff should contact Occupational Health Services (OHS). Early symptom identification is an important step in slowing the spread of COVID-19. The state has reported a case level of 34 new cases per million per day in Washtenaw County as of August 25 (mistartmap.info) with an average of 12 new cases per day. Case levels have plateaued in Ann Arbor and are decreasing in Ypsilanti. Michigan is currently ranked 32nd in case incidence nationwide (Source: COVIDActNow.org)

Four new positive tests have been reported in students living off-campus, all four students are being assisted with any isolation needs. Contact tracing efforts are underway and confirmed close contacts are being instructed to quarantine following public health guidance. The dashboard has also been updated with an additional 6 reports from OHS from the last eight days. These were all individuals that were working remotely or who were not on campus during the infectious period. No clusters or workplace exposures have been identified.

Eight new positive tests have been reported for students in the last 3 days. Six of the 8 students are asymptomatic and were identified during baseline testing efforts. All students have been assisted with isolation needs and contact tracing efforts are underway. No clusters (individuals with a common exposure) have been identified.

Pre-arrival testing is almost completed and the percent of positive tests is less than 1%. A number of infections in non-students have been identified since August 9. Contact tracing has not identified any workplace-linked infections with these cases. Risk level in our larger region has increased to High overall, however, Washtenaw county remains lower than neighboring counties with 28.9 new cases per million per day as of August 21 and 1.9% of tests are positive this week. Case numbers and percent positivity for our state as a whole remain steady (38.4 new cases per million on average and 3.3% of tests are positive this week). Michigan is now 41st in the nation for new case levels (Source: CovidActNow.org)

Case numbers remain low on campus and requests for tests for symptomatic individuals remain low. Risk level in our region according to state public health authorities is at Medium High, with Washtenaw county at case levels that are below the rest of the region (21 new cases per million and 2.3% positivity). The state as a whole has experienced medium to high levels of cases over the past week (37.7 new cases per million on average) and an overall percent positivity of 3.3%, which has been decreasing. Michigan is ranked 38th among all states in new case levels nationally (Source: CovidActNow.org)

Few positive cases have been identified this week in the campus community following larger testing events from 2 weeks ago. Visits to UHS are currently low, an average of 3 tests per day over the last week, so the percent positive can appear high based on a handful of results. No concerning increases have been identified on campus in the last week, and infection levels in our surrounding communities continue to decline.