Across Virginia
Virginia has joined the growing number of states across the nation halting evictions in response to potentially lost wages during the coronavirus pandemic. WFIR’s Ian Price has more:
APRIL 1 UPDATE: The coronavirus death toll in Virginia has reached 34 , and total number of cases has jumped by more than 200, hitting 1,484.
MARCH 31 UPDATE; Virginia’s coronavirus death toll has increased to 27 and the number of cases statewide has reached 1,250. State health officials say the number of hospitalizations stands at 165. Governor Northam has ordered Virginia residents to remain at home as the state takes new steps in efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. The order permits you to leave home for any number of services and purposes including food, banking, medical attention and exercise.
MARCH 30 UPDATE: The number of COVID-19 cases in Virginia now tops 1,000. As of Monday morning, the Virginia Department of Health reports 1,020 confirmed cases and 25 deaths. The Roanoke region’s number is rising as well: the department’s web site lists six cases in Roanoke City, five in Botetourt County, five in Franklin County, two in Roanoke County, two in Bedford County and one in Montgomery County.
March 28 Update: The latest information from the Virginia Department of Health shows more than 9,100 people have been tested in Virginia. Total cases are at 739 while 99 have been hospitalized. Death toll is at 17.
MARCH 27 UPDATE: As of 10:00 am, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state jumped more than 100 from yesterday to 604 in all. The Virginia Department of Health also says 83 people have required hospitalization to date; there have been 14 deaths attributed to the coronavirus so far. Virginia’s population centers remain the state’s hotspots: Fairfax County alone reports 124 confirmed cases, and there are more than 100 in Hampton Roads.
In the Roanoke area, there are one each in Roanoke City and County, Botetourt County and Franklin County. There are two reported cases in Bedford County.
MARCH 23 UPDATE: RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia public schools will remain closed for the rest of the current school year and certain types of businesses, like bowling alleys, gyms and theaters, must close in response to the coronavirus outbreak, Gov. Ralph Northam said Monday.
Northam’s order would not apply to businesses deemed essential, including grocery stores, pharmacies, banks and gas stations. State-owned liquor stores will also remain open.
“I know that the next several weeks, the next several months, will be difficult. They will require everyone to change the way that we live, the way we interact with each other,” the governor said.
Northam, who is a doctor, said the closures were necessary to slow the spread of the virus and ensure that the health care system can keep up. As of Monday, there were 254 confirmed cases and six virus-related deaths in Virginia, according to the state health department.
The virus causes only minor flu-like symptoms in most people, who recover in a matter of weeks. But it is highly contagious and can cause severe illness or death in some, particularly the elderly and those with underlying health problems. Severe cases are often only able to breathe with respirators.
The governor had previously ordered a two-week school closure, which was set to end at the end of this week. Many school districts in the state have previously said they will be closed until at least mid-April.
The latest state numbers now have 254 confirmed COVID-19 cases across Virginia. That is an increase of 35 from Sunday’s number. There are six fatalities.
FRIDAY UPDATE: There are now 114 confirmed coronoavirus cases now across Virginia. Health officials expect the number to grow as more test results come in. With one case now reported from Botetourt County, every Health Department region in the state now has at least one.
THURSDAY EVENING UPDATE: The Roanoke region has its first confirmed Coronavirus case. Carilion Clinic reports it is an elderly patient admitted Monday with symptoms consistent with the virus. Test results came back today. The patient lives in Botetourt County.
THURSDAY UPDATE: The Virginia Department of Health now shows 94 confirmed coronavirus cases across the state; that is an increase of 17 in one day. The greatest concentration continues to be in the Washington suburbs and the Williamsburg-Newport News area. There are still no confirmed cases in the Roanoke and Lynchburg areas, but health officials caution that results from many tests taken have not yet returned from the CDC. The number of coronavirus-related deaths in Virginia remains at two.
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: Governor Northam’s administration says as of late Wednesday morning, there are now 77 confirmed coronavirus cases in Virginia, up 10 from yesterday. None are in the Virginia Department of Health’s Southwest Region, which includes the Roanoke and and Lynchburg areas. There are no additional deaths reported, keeping the state’s number at two.
PREVIOUS: Governor Northam says Virginia is adopting federal guidelines announced yesterday — and limiting gatherings in the state to no more than 10 people.
Northam urges all restaurants to provide takeout service only — and employees impacted by state-mandated closures will be immediately eligible for unemployment compensation. It comes as the number of coronavirus cases in the state climbs to 67 — none of them in the Roanoke and Lynchburg region.
The governor has ordered all DMV offices to close until further notice, but the agency’s on-line processes will continue.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Restaurants, gyms, and theaters in Virginia will not serve more than 10 customers at a time under an order the governor issued Tuesday in response to the coronavirus.
Gov. Ralph Northam also urged Virginians to comply with new federal guidelines not to gather in groups of more than 10 and for people older than 65 to self-quarantine.
Several other states and cities have ordered restaurants and bars to close, which Northam said he did not favor. Speaking at a Capitol news conference, he said Virginians get about half their meals from restaurants and an outright ban would be harmful. He also said he hoped that Virginians would voluntarily comply with the new measures.
“I’m much more about carrots than I am about sticks,” Northam said. “Hopefully we get to the point where we don’t have to do a lot of enforcement.”
Northam’s announcement came a day after the White House released a series of sweeping guidelines that for the next 15 days will temporarily rewrite the norms of American society. They include the recommendation not to gather in groups of more than 10 people and that discretionary travel and social visits should be avoided.
The governor had previously banned all public gatherings of more than 100 people and ordered schools closed for two weeks.
Many restaurant owners in Richmond had already decided to shut down, even before the new restrictions announced by Northam.
Liz Kincaid, co-owner of four restaurants in Richmond, closed them all on Monday. She said business at the restaurants was way down last week amid coronavirus fears, and employees were growing increasingly concerned about potential exposure to the virus.
“It’s a pretty sad moment right now,” she said Tuesday. “It was an extremely difficult decision. A lot of our staff have been with us for a long time __ for years __ and I just hope they understand. … We felt it would be socially irresponsible to stay open at this point.”
The YMCA announced Tuesday that it will temporarily close all of its facilities in the Richmond area. Tim Joyce, president and chief executive officer of the YMCA of Greater Richmond, said the closings are being done in an attempt to help “flatten the curve,” the phrase used to describe efforts to slow the spread of the virus so the healthcare system does not get overwhelmed.
“These are unprecedented times unlike any we have been through,” Joyce said in a statement.
Northam said the state would waive a one-week waiting period for people seeking unemployment benefits and expand eligibility to certain workers affected by business closings.
The governor also asked younger people to take precautions to avoid spreading the virus to others.
“Do not go to St. Patrick’s Day parties tonight. If you do, you are literally putting others at risk,” Northam said.
The governor said he was also ordering the temporary closure of Department of Motor Vehicle offices around the state.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Virginia had 67 cases of the virus, up from 51 the day before. That includes the first known instance of someone at a long-term care facility testing positive for the virus.
“This is very concerning,” State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver said.
He said the state was actively investigating the case and working with the nursing home to isolate the patient so the virus doesn’t spread to others at the facility.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Gov. Ralph Northam on Sunday banned all public gatherings of more than 100 people statewide and ordered a two-week shutdown of municipal offices in an area of southeast Virginia that has been hit by a cluster of coronavirus cases, including the state’s first death from the virus.
Northam made the announcement after meeting with local officials in the Peninsula Health District, where eight people have tested positive for the virus, including one man in his 70s who died of respiratory failure caused by the virus. The peninsula covers Williamsburg, Newport News, Poquoson, James City County and York County.
“This is a very fluid and dynamic situation. We have not mandated a quarantine, but we are strongly encouraging and urging people to avoid public gatherings of any kind,” he said.
For people who live in the peninsula district, Northam said: “If you are planning an event with several people, you should cancel it — period.”
Local officials said municipal buildings throughout the district will be closed through March 30, but said local governments will continue to provide essential services, including police and fire response, and trash collection.
Dr. Thomas Franck, director of the Peninsula Health District, said officials have traced more than 200 contacts of people who have tested positive for the virus in the district and will continue to trace others “to ensure self-quarantine is taking place and to identify additional cases of the virus in the community.”
Local officials urged people in the district to avoid gatherings of more than 50 people.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.
The outbreak has caused more than 5,800 deaths out of 156,000 cases worldwide.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia health officials on Saturday reported the state’s first death from the coronavirus, a man in his 70s who died of respiratory failure after acquiring the virus through an unknown source.In a news release, the Virginia Department of Health and the Peninsula Health District reported the death of the man, who had been hospitalized.
“On behalf of the entire Commonwealth, we express our deepest sympathy for the family and loved ones of the patient who died, as well as the families of everyone who has been affected by this outbreak,” said State Health Commissioner M. Norman Oliver.
In a statement, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman said the death occurred in James City County. Health officials said they are reaching out to all identified contacts of people who have tested positive for coronavirus and giving them instructions on how to protect themselves and others.
Gov. Ralph Northam said he was “deeply saddened” to learn that a Virginia resident has died from the virus.
Virginia has reported 41 people have tested positive for the virus so far. Northam has declared a state of emergency, closed K-12 schools across the state for the next two weeks, restricted visitors at nursing homes and correctional facilities, and canceled large events.
“This is a public health crisis—we must all treat it as such,” Northam said in a news release.
He urged residents to avoid large gatherings, work at home if possible, and stay home if they are sick.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.
The outbreak has caused more than 5,600 deaths out of 149,000 cases worldwide.
NEWS RELEASE: — Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Peninsula Health District reported the death of a hospitalized patient who previously tested positive for COVID-19. This event marks the first death in the Commonwealth of Virginia due to COVID-19.
The patient was a male in his 70s who acquired COVID-19 through an unknown source. The cause of death was respiratory failure as a result of COVID-19.
“On behalf of the entire Commonwealth, we express our deepest sympathy for the family and loved ones of the patient who died, as well as the families of everyone who has been affected by this outbreak,” said State Health Commissioner M. Norman Oliver, M.D., M.A. “The health of our residents and the community is our top priority, and we will continue working together to care for the patients, protect the safety of health care workers, and protect the people in our Commonwealth.”
This case was recorded by VDH when it was first identified.
The Peninsula Health District has activated its incident management team and is deploying all necessary resources in order to contain this outbreak. Public Health officials are reaching out to all identified contacts of COVID-19 cases.
The Peninsula Health District has been working very closely to identify people who have been in potential contact with people known to have tested positive for coronavirus. They are interviewing affected people and giving instructions on how to protect themselves and others.
To lower the risk of respiratory germ spread, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages the following effective behaviors:
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
This is a rapidly changing situation, and information is being shared as it becomes available on the following websites: www.vdh.virginia.
NEWS RELEASE: Governor Ralph Northam today ordered all K-12 schools in Virginia to close for a minimum of two weeks in response to the continued spread of novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.
Schools will close from Monday, March 16, through Friday, March 27, at a minimum. Localities will maintain authority over specific staffing decisions to ensure students maintain continuity of services or learning, while protecting the public health of teachers and staff.
“We are taking this action to keep Virginians as safe and healthy as possible, and to minimize exposure to COVID-19,” said Governor Northam. “I recognize this will pose a hardship on many families, but closing our schools for two weeks will not only give our staff time to clean and disinfect school facilities, it will help slow the spread of this virus. This is a fluid and fast-changing situation. We will do everything possible to ensure that students who rely on school nutrition programs continue to have access to meals, and that the disruption to academics is as minimal as possible.”
Virginia Department of Education officials are working closely with school divisions and the Department of Social Services to ensure students who qualify for free or reduced lunch programs are able to access those programs while schools are closed. The Department of Education will issue guidance and memos to superintendents across the Commonwealth to provide specifics about the continuity of education, school nutrition, and updated public health guidelines.
“We recognize this decision places burdens on many of our parents and families, especially for those who rely on school nutrition programs for access to healthy food for their children,” said Secretary of Education Atif Qarni. “However, we believe closing Virginia schools is in the Commonwealth’s best interest as we seek to stop the spread of COVID-19. Virginia will continue to explore and implement innovative approaches to provide meals to students who qualify for free and reduced lunch during this closure.”
School officials are also working to minimize disruptions to instructional time.
“The Department of Education is working closely with divisions to minimize disruptions to our students’ academic development by encouraging schools to provide students and families with educational resources throughout this time,” said Dr. James Lane, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “We are committed to help divisions address all the implications of these closures and will seek to provide each division with maximum flexibility to address local needs as they arise, especially as it relates to make-up days.”
On Thursday, Governor Northam declared a state of emergency for Virginia, which will provide increased flexibility to ease regulatory requirements and procurement rules, continue federal and multi-state coordination, and ensure continued access to critical services for the most vulnerable Virginians.
Governor Northam also halted specially-scheduled state events and conferences for 30 days, and banned out-of-state travel for state employees, with allowances for individuals in border communities.
Ongoing State Response Efforts
The Commonwealth of Virginia continues to execute a multi-agency response plan across all levels of government. Ongoing statewide efforts include the following:
Justice-Involved Populations
The Department of Corrections (DOC) has canceled offender visitation at all facilities until further notice. Off-site video visitation is still available.
A dedicated COVID-19 public information line with an updated, recorded message is operational. The phone number is (804) 887-8484.
DOC has implemented a screening protocol for offenders coming into state facilities from local jails.
Virginia provided detailed guidance to correctional facilities and other work locations regarding approved hand washing, sanitizing, and disinfectant products, and instructions for the proper use of those products to provide protection from COVID-19.
State Workforce
The Department of Human Resource Management (DHRM) has directed all state agencies to update their emergency operations and paid leave policies, and Virginia will begin implementing a phased transition to teleworking for state employees.
Virginia is setting an example by activating paid Public Health Emergency Leave for state employees who have recently traveled to high-risk areas.
All official travel outside of Virginia by state employees has been halted, with increased flexibility for inter-state commuters and essential personnel. State employees have been advised to limit in-person meetings and non-essential work-related gatherings. Specific guidance will be released to agency heads and state employees, and Virginia will revisit these guidelines after 30 days.
Vulnerable Populations
The Department of Medical Assistance Services and the Department of Social Services are preparing options to ensure the most vulnerable populations have continued access to critical services, including the potential for in-home care and food support.
In the event of extended school closures, the Department of Social Services is working with local partners, such as food pantries, to ensure no one goes hungry.
Transportation
The Department of Rail and Public Transportation is coordinating with Metro, Amtrak, Virginia Rail Express, and transit agencies across Virginia to adjust cleaning schedules according to CDC protocol.
Washington Dulles International Airport is one of 11 airports designated by the federal government to receive flights from China. The CDC is conducting screenings of passengers at Dulles who have been in China or Iran during the past 14 days.
Virginia is also working with transportation partners to help reduce the potential spread of disease.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency Thursday in response to the coronavirus pandemic, as the state’s number of confirmed cases grew to 17.
Northam advised all Virginians to avoid large gatherings “for the time being.” He said he was canceling all state conferences and large events for the next 30 days and urged local governments and private organizers to follow suit. He also announced new restrictions on travel for state workers.
“The situation is fluid, and it is changing rapidly,” Northam said at a press conference with other state officials and top lawmakers.
“Virginians should know that we have longstanding plans in place to deal with pandemics. We have trained for them and we are ready for this,” Northam said.
Virginia has 17 “presumptive positive” cases of COVID-19, the illness caused by the virus, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health.
Dr. Lilian Peake, the state epidemiologist, said at the press conference that there is so far no sign of “community spread” of the virus, meaning cases where it’s unclear how the patient acquired it.
For most people, the virus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. But for some, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people who contract it recover within weeks.
Thursday’s announcement from Northam came as colleges, public school districts and workplaces around the commonwealth were re-evaluating their protocols.
A cascade of Virginia colleges began announcing Wednesday that they were canceling on-campus instruction, at least temporarily. They included the University of Virginia, William & Mary, James Madison University, Virginia Commonwealth University and Longwood University, where a student tested positive for COVID-19.
Some public school districts in Virginia have announced temporary closures so that teachers can prepare for the possibility of implementing distance learning. Chesterfield County schools said they would be closed to students Friday, and Fairfax County schools were to be closed Monday.
Some large private employers, including Capital One, encouraged employees to work from home.
Longwood University photo
A Longwood University student has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, pushing the number of presumptive coronavirus cases in Virginia up to 11. Longwood officials say the student was on campus only briefly after spring break, and they believe there is a low risk to the rest of the campus community. All events and in-person classes there are cancelled through at least next Tuesday.
LETTER TO LONGWOOD COMMUNITY:
These are challenging times nationally and here in Virginia.
On Tuesday, we shared with you the news that a Longwood student was following CDC guidance to self-quarantine and had been tested for Covid-19 by the Virginia Department of Health.
We have just been informed that the results of that test have been returned and are sharing immediately that those results are a presumptive positive case. The student continues to self-quarantine pending further testing at the CDC to confirm the test.
Based on their conversations with the student earlier this week about their brief time on campus following spring break, VDH continues to believe even with the presumptive positive test there remains a low generalized risk to our community.
VDH has begun reaching out to those who may have been in close contact with the student to evaluate whether any further steps such as assessment, self-quarantine or testing may be necessary. The name of the student will not be released publicly. If VDH believes they need to speak with you they will be in touch. If you have questions VDH asks you to contact their local office directly at 434-392-3984.
While it is no surprise that a case of Covid-19 has appeared in our community, we have committed to you that if circumstances evolve Longwood would take new steps to best protect the health and safety of all students, faculty and staff. So out of an abundance of caution tonight we are announcing the following, all following close consultation with VDH.
- Effective tomorrow (Thursday) morning and through at least next Wednesday, March 18, campus events and in-person classes are cancelled. As with a weather-related closing, faculty will be in touch with you about continuing work assignments and clinical/internship experiences. It is your responsibility to check your student email or Canvas as appropriate, and to contact them with questions.
- If it is necessary to extend the cancellation of in-person classes beyond next Wednesday, we will do so. Over these next few days, faculty will continue preparations already underway to be able to continue their courses online further into the semester should that prove necessary.
- We will continue to evaluate in consultation with experts when we can return to in-person classes and campus events, and communicate regularly with you during this period.
- The University is not closing. Students may wish to return home during this period, but they do not have to. We recognize many students may feel safer and more secure here at Longwood than in places to which they might return, and we will continue to accommodate you. Residence halls, the library and the dining hall will remain open, with protocols already in place for extra cleaning and to facilitate any “social distancing” that may be necessary. We will communicate more details with students about this separately.
- Faculty and staff should consider the next five days as similar to a weather-related closing and engage in their duties and responsibilities as they customarily would in that circumstance. Faculty and staff can access their offices.
My thanks to everyone in the Longwood community for your understanding as we navigate these challenging times, acting responsibly for the greater good and our own community, now and in the future.
President Reveley
FROM JMU: James Madison University officials have been closely monitoring the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, partnering with the Virginia Department of Health and public health experts here on campus to adjust university operations at home and abroad. Our primary goal is to protect the health and safety of our faculty and staff, students and the greater Harrisonburg community. In recent weeks, we have called students home from JMU study-abroad programs, activated emergency response teams and strengthened contingency plans.
While there are no COVID-19 cases in the JMU community at this time, it has become necessary for the university to take further steps to support public safety. The level of operational change outlined below is unprecedented in our history. We are deeply thankful to our faculty and staff who continue to work tirelessly during these challenging times to support our students and make the changes necessary to protect our community’s well-being. We also deeply appreciate the resilience of our students and their families as they navigate these uncharted waters with us.
Campus Operations
While the university will remain open and continue to offer services to students (e.g. Counseling Center and University Health Center), JMU will not hold in-person classes the week of March 16. Beginning March 23, most JMU classes will move online until at least April 5. A communication will be issued by March 27 regarding the delivery of course content after April 5. Please note that the university will be closed on Friday, March 13, as this is a planned holiday for faculty and staff.
Faculty, staff and graduate assistants are expected to report to work as regularly scheduled, fulfilling their normal duties and working to transition course content, assignments and activities online. JMU Libraries has a number of resources available to assist with this. University leadership is evaluating labs, clinical, experiential, studio, performance and other learning situations where online or electronic learning poses unique challenges.
Deans will be reaching out to faculty in the coming days with additional information. Students should expect to hear from faculty on next steps, and be in touch with faculty with any questions about course work. The continuity of student and faculty research is an important consideration; for more information, contact research@jmu.edu.
Residence and Dining Halls
While residence halls will reopen on March 15, students are encouraged not to return to JMU (including on-campus and off-campus housing) until at least April 5. We recognize students will need to gather personal belongings. We also acknowledge that some students may not have an alternative housing option, or need to be based on campus to maintain involvement in athletic, employment or lab-based learning engagements. We ask that those students check in with their residential staff once they return to JMU. Dining facilities will continue to operate; more information can be found on Dining Service’s website.
Meetings and Events
In the interest of being a good public citizen, the university will be canceling or postponing all events hosted at JMU’s facilities, including the Forbes Center, between Monday, March 16, and at least Sunday, April 5. This includes events hosted by the university, and community and student organizations. Departments at JMU planning to host events essential to academic progress and university operations prior to April 5 can petition their deans or division vice presidents to hold such events.
There are no changes to the university’s athletics schedule at this time. The university will continue to communicate with the NCAA and Colonial Athletic Association regarding athletics operations. Updates to athletics will be posted to jmusports.com.
In-person meetings, including staff meetings in university spaces, may continue.
Student Employment
Undergraduate student employees of the university should contact their supervisors for more information.
Travel for University Employees
University-sponsored travel to countries carrying a Level 3 Travel Notice from the Centers for Disease Control is prohibited. All other university-sponsored domestic and international travel must be approved by individuals’ deans or division vice presidents. Travel decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis and those responsible for approving travel will be kept up to date on the most recent travel notices and considerations. Employees who have canceled or postponed university-sponsored travel should work with their supervisor, as those expenses may be reimbursed on a case-by-case basis.
For information, including operating hours, on individual student services, such as the University Health Center, UREC and dining services, please visit their webpages. Please also continue to check jmu.edu/covid19 for the most up-to-date information and contact covid19@jmu.edu with questions.
At JMU, we are a community that educates both the head and heart. In these challenging times, I know we will come together and support one another in the finest tradition of JMU. Thank you all for your understanding, patience and willingness to work together.
With deep appreciation,
Jonathan R. Alger
President, James Madison University
FROM VIRGINIA TECH: While there are currently no confirmed cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Southwest Virginia, it is our obligation to do all we can to limit the spread of the disease and protect the members of our extended community, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
Based on the trajectory of the COVID-19 coronavirus disease in communities around the world, it is very likely that cases of COVID-19 will appear in population centers throughout the U.S. There are confirmed cases in the vicinity of other Virginia Tech facilities, and we expect that the disease will continue to spread to our many communities.
Our campus administrators, public health experts, and community leaders have been continuously engaged in monitoring the situation in Blacksburg, across Virginia, and around the world.
In consultation with our partners in the Virginia Department of Health, we are adopting a range of principle-based actions, effective immediately. We are confident that these actions will lower the risk to our communities. In this update, I will focus on our preparation and plans for the coming weeks.
Academics and classroom instruction
Following guidance from the CDC, the Virginia Department of Health, and our own public health and safety experts to limit the spread of the disease, we are transitioning to online and remote instruction (Zoom, video, and other forms of delivery) for all undergraduate and graduate students at all Virginia Tech locations for the remainder of the spring semester. In order to provide time for students and faculty to make this transition, spring break will be extended to Sunday, March 22, and classes will resume on Monday, March 23. The Blacksburg campus remains open now and will remain open after spring break ends. However, starting March 23, students will take their courses online.
For our undergraduate students, anyone with an individual concern related to the transition to online instruction should contact the Office of the Dean of Students at dean.students@vt.edu or 540-231-3787.
For our graduate students, all academic programs and courses at the Northern Virginia Center (in Falls Church) and the Washington Alexandria Architecture Center (WAAC) will move to online delivery. Students and faculty are asked to prepare to use the available technology tools to stay connected. Additionally, students in clinical and professional graduate programs will be contacted directly by their college or department. In the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, students are already scheduled for spring break during the week of March 16-20, and college officials will communicate directly with students as details are finalized. The Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC will each communicate directly with their respective students and researchers.
For our faculty and instructors, we ask you to be as flexible as possible in accommodating the needs of students. Resources are available to assist in transitions to online formats. Please work with your department chair or head, program director, or dean to coordinate and communicate the plans for adjusting instruction.
We recognize the challenge that this presents to our faculty and instructors. We know these decisions will cause disruptions in the instructional environment. Students will miss out on the enormous value of face-to-face instruction and on the camaraderie of their peers. Our Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies department is collaborating with partners across campus to provide additional resources to assist faculty and staff in delivering their courses online, including finding alternative means of instruction for lab courses as required. Faculty members will reach out directly to students as plans for individual classes are completed.
While these decisions will cause disruptions in the instructional environment, we believe these steps are necessary if we are to be responsive to the recommendations of public health officials regarding how best to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the health of our community, especially for the most vulnerable among us.
University events at all Virginia Tech locations
We are canceling all Virginia Tech-sponsored events at any location that are scheduled prior to April 30 and that are expected to draw crowds larger than 100 people.
We will regularly evaluate events beyond April 30 and announce such decisions as they are made. At this point, we anticipate that commencement events in May will proceed as scheduled. However, should a change be needed, we will convey that decision with as much advance notice as possible.
Events that are affected by this decision include (but are not limited to):
- Principles of Community Week events
- Ring Dance
- Faculty Women of Color in the Academy National Conference
- The Big Event
- Relay For Life
- The 3.2-Mile Run in Remembrance
- Caldwell March
- Spring Family Weekend
- Black Alumni Reunion
- Regional campaign events
- Ut Prosim Society Weekend
- Hokie Focus
- Spring Open House
Beyond these, cancellations apply to any Virginia Tech event expecting a turnout of more than 100 people at any location through April 30.
- Admissions: The Virginia Tech Office of Undergraduate Admissions is following the direction of the university and canceling the spring Open House, Hokie Focus, Gateway, High School Spring Break, special group visits, and all daily visits. We are creating a series of virtual Hokie experiences and we will be sharing details as soon they are ready. Registrants for all events will receive emailed instructions on how to participate.
- Moss Arts Center: The Moss Arts Center is currently evaluating the remaining scheduled performances and events and will communicate information to patrons and the community as decisions are made.
- Athletic events: In accordance with the ACC and university officials, at this time, athletic events will continue as scheduled. Athletic Director Whit Babcock is currently reviewing specific guidelines for spectator participation for each and every event.
- For events that are expected to draw fewer than 100 participants, event stakeholders and planners are strongly encouraged to follow public safety guidelines put forth by the Virginia Department of Health and the principles set forth by the university. For questions, please contact askvt@vt.edu.
- Event sponsors should review all events and consider canceling events in accordance with the principles outlined above. Planners are encouraged to reevaluate invitations to outside speakers for conferences, seminars, or other public events. Facility administrators who have made their spaces available to non-university entities are encouraged to follow public health guidelines in accordance with the Virginia Department of Health.
Overseas operations and study abroad
Virginia Tech is canceling all summer 2020 international travel programs. This difficult decision addresses both the public health concerns and the challenges of planning ahead. The university will work with students to mitigate the impact on academic programs or progression to graduation that occurs from the summer program cancellation or an in-semester disruption to instruction. For students who cannot attend summer study/travel opportunities due to a cancellation, we will work with students to identify future opportunities and we will work with academic advisors to make these arrangements.
For Virginia Tech students currently enrolled in programs/courses being taught at international locations and who wish to return to the U.S., the university will provide incremental financial support for travel expenses. We will work to keep students on track with their academic progress.
We remain steadfastly committed to study abroad and international opportunities. These experiences closely align with our land-grant ideals, and we will return to them with renewed energy as soon as possible.
At this time, the Steger Center for International Scholarship in Riva San Vitale, Switzerland, remains open; resources and infrastructure there are sufficient to continue operations and academic instruction. Faculty and students throughout Switzerland must restrict themselves to in-country travel. We will update this guidance as conditions change.
Travel
Until further notice, we are imposing a moratorium on all university-sponsored domestic and international travel. All members of the Virginia Tech community are being discouraged from any non-critical domestic or international travel, whether personal or professional. Questions regarding travel and scheduled conferences/events impacted by a cancellation should be routed to the appropriate vice president or dean.
Self-quarantining
Students, faculty, and staff who have arrived or will be returning from a CDC Level 2 or Level 3 travel notice area or other areas of risk identified by the university, whether studying abroad, teaching, conducting research, or on spring break, should complete the following Virginia Tech Emergency Management form to share self-quarantine plans with the university. Alternatively, university community members can share these details over the phone at 540-231-4600.
Travelers returning from Level 2 or 3 travel notice areas must not return to a Virginia Tech campus or facility until they can demonstrate that they show no symptoms associated with COVID-19 — cough, fever, shortness of breath — for a period of 14 days from the date of entering/reentering the U.S.
Operations in Blacksburg, Roanoke, Northern Virginia, and across Virginia
Campuses and sites in Blacksburg, Roanoke, Northern Virginia, and across the commonwealth remain open and operational. Faculty and staff should come to work, albeit with allowances for those who are experiencing symptoms (whether it’s the common cold, flu, or COVID-19) or who have unique considerations. Those with concerns should contact their supervisor.
The Division of IT and TLOS offer useful resources for telecommuting and working remotely that are available to Virginia Tech students, faculty, and staff. We recommend that you stay in touch with your department IT support staff and your department leadership for guidance on best practices and resources for working remotely.
Health and wellbeing
If you or someone you live with is immunosuppressed or a member of a high-risk group as defined by the CDC, we advise that you refrain from public contact to the extent possible. If you are exhibiting any symptoms of a respiratory disease, including the flu or a common cold, please do not attend campus activities or come to work.
- Individuals who are experiencing symptoms or who are vulnerable because of preexisting conditions should contact Schiffert Health Center at healthcenter@vt.edu or 540-231-6444 for directions.
- If you are a student, please contact dean.students@vt.edu or 540-231-3787 to discuss accommodations.
- If you are a campus employee, please contact hrservicecenter@vt.edu for guidance on leave policies, some of which have been updated for this situation.
For our students, and indeed every member of our community, we ask you take responsibility for limiting the spread of disease, whether it is the flu, common cold, COVID-19, or something else. Please consult this advice from the CDC. Your health and the health of fellow Hokies are our first priority. If you find that you are conflicted in making a decision about attending an event, participating in online classes, residing in the residence halls, or another situation, choose the option that is best for your health and the health of those around you. We will do everything possible to ensure that these changes do not impact your academic progress.
Students are asked not to return to campus during the extended spring break, March 16-20. Dining halls and residence halls will be operational after March 20. If you have concerns about living or dining arrangements, please contact dean.students@vt.edu or 540-231-3787.
For administrators at all levels, please develop and communicate local, unit-level decisions to stakeholders, consistent with the principles outlined above.
Working groups with representation from across the university, from academics to public health to emergency management, will continue collaborating with our partners in the Virginia Department of Health and other agencies.
As we review information and make decisions in real-time, and we will update you as often as needed. Instructions and information may evolve rapidly, so please consult our COVID-19 websitefor further information, updates, event statuses, and answers to frequently asked questions.
To every member of our community, thank you for your extraordinary efforts to protect your health and the health of others, while maintaining the continuity of university life and operations to the extent possible.
The spirit of community is one of Virginia Tech’s most remarkable strengths, and while our renowned ability to gather in large numbers will be curtailed this spring, our spirit of serving and caring for others can be expressed just as strongly through our actions to protect our community.
In the spirit of Ut Prosim,
Tim Sands,
President