Dear OSU Corvallis Students,

I am writing to share that recent wastewater sampling indicates that the virus that causes COVID-19 may be present in a number of campus residence halls. At this time, we are not able to estimate the possible number of individual cases from these wastewater results.

Affected residence halls are Sackett, Finley, Buxton, Callahan, Hawley, Poling, Weatherford and the International Living Learning Center.

In response to these residence hall wastewater results, TRACE OSU will conduct immediate COVID-19 diagnostic testing, Thursday and Friday, Nov. 12 and 13, for students living in the impacted residence halls. The testing is intended to help identify those who may be infected, but who are not presenting symptoms.

As well, wastewater results taken in the Corvallis community show rising indications of the virus in the community, including in neighborhoods where students live in apartments, Greek houses and private residences.

In response to these serious indications of rising prevalence of the virus, the university strongly encourages that all OSU students immediately avoid all non-essential activities outside their residence and participate in TRACE OSU testing being offered all students Nov. 16-18. 

We also strongly encourage that you to continue to:

  • Wear face coverings.
  • Engage in social distancing.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Self-screen daily for COVID-19 symptoms and remain isolated if you are not feeling well.

If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your primary care provider or call the Student Health Services Medical Advice Nurse Line at 541-737-2724, or call 541-737-9355 for an appointment (including telehealth).

Thank you for continuing to do your part to contribute to a safer and healthier community.

Sincerely,

Dan Larson

Vice Provost of Student Affairs

Student Affairs

OSU COVID-19 Response Coordinator

Date: 
November 12, 2020