With colder weather already here, COVID-19 cases can make a slight comeback.
Locally, copies of the virus found in wastewater decreased since the start of the year, but still remain higher than reports from November, according to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
The dashboard, as of Jan. 15, reported 1,966 copies of the virus found per 100mL.
However, it is a decrease from this time last year. The test collected Jan. 16, 2023, showed 2,671 viral copies detected per 100mL.
The daily average for hospital admissions across the country is at a daily average of 7,378 for all ages as of Dec. 30, according to the most recent data from The New York Times.
Keene State College sent out an email to students, staff and faculty outlining the current COVID-19 policies for the Spring 2024 semester on Jan. 16 from Barbara Berthiaume, director of The Wellness Center and chief medical officer.
While KSC no longer requires reporting a positive test result, students are encouraged to communicate it with their professors.
For Faculty and Staff, they should communicate it with their supervisors and follow HR illness guidelines.
According to the email, students are required to isolate for at least five days.
“Students should isolate at home if able, otherwise may isolate in place in your residence hall.”
If fever-free for 24 hours on day 6, isolation may end. However, a mask should be worn until day 10, the email states.
Tests are available to students, while supplies last, at The Wellness Center, located on the third floor of the Elliot Center.
Tim Bruns can be contacted at
tbruns@kscequinox.com
