Biggest COVID-19 Outbreak Yet At University Of Chicago; School Implements Remote Classes, Restrictions – CBS Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) — In the biggest outbreak of COVID-19 since the start of the school year, more than 50 cases of the virus has been reported at the University of Chicago in the past 48 hours.

According to a statement from the university, a “substantial number of cases are among students living on-campus, distributed across multiple residence halls.” The university said it expects that number to increase.

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The cases are being traced to off-campus fraternity parties and there is concern that the students have contracted the highly contagious B.1.1.7 variant of the virus.

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Those who have tested positive are in isolation. Students living in residence halls must observe a new stay-at-home period of seven days, beginning immediately. Classes will be conducted remotely, starting Thursday, for at least seven days, the university said.

The univesity also urged students to arrange for a COVID-19 vaccine, either at the campus’ vaccine clinic or other location.

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There have been 918 reported cases of COVID at the U. of C. since the start of the academic year, according to the university’s COVID dashboard.