(WWJ) Michigan State University is issuing an order for two weeks of "enhanced social distancing."
Citing a "rapid increase in COVID-19 positivity rates" since the start of the semester, officials at the East Lansing school are cracking down on measures to slow the spread the virus.
The period of enhanced physical distancing is in effect as of Saturday (yesterday) at midnight and will remain in place until at least Saturday February 13 at 11:59 p.m.
During this time, students living in the dorms and within the East Lansing area are to avoid gathering with other people—on campus or off, according to a statement.
University officials say students in residence halls are not allowed to have visitors in their room, gather in groups or lounges or dine together, including with suite mates, pod mates or bubble mates.
Dining halls will only be open for mobile and takeout orders during this period. IM East and IM West will be closed.
Students may only come to campus for:
-Accessing secure internet
-Picking up meals from a dining hall.
-Attending an in-person class.
-Conducting research or employment that must be performed in person.
-Participating in the COVID-19 Early Detection Program.
-Receiving medical care.
Students who come to campus must fill out a daily health screening form and participate in the COVID-19 Early Detection Program.
University officials say failure to comply with local health orders may be considered a civil infraction which could come with a $500 fine.
"We must reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community," said a joint letter signed by Senior Vice President, Vennie Gore, and University Physician, Dr. David Weismantel. "If we increase our distance now, we vastly increase the chances of being able to come together safely later this semester."
See MSU's COVID-19 Dashboard here.
