Several students in UMES community test positive for COVID-19

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. – The University of Maryland Eastern Shore has confirmed that after one week into their 2020 Fall semester, a number of students have tested positive for COVID-19.

Officials say all residential students were tested starting the weekend before classes starting, continuing through Thursday until every member of the campus community could be tested. This is a baseline to show officials where they are starting.

We’re told that this testing showed a total of 16 positive COVID-19 cases in the campus community, with a positivity rate of 1%.

To help keep the campus community as distanced as possible, housing on campus as been limited to one student per bedroom. We’re told about a third of students chose to stay at home and continue their learning. All of UMES’ classes are hybrid or hyflex, meaning some students can take class online while others are in class.

Those on campus have committed to following the rules of mask wearing and physical distancing. Enhanced cleaning procedures have been put into place, with disinfectant wipes and gallons of hand sanitizer easily accessible.

Officials say they have invested in additional technology to create an engaging learning environment and allow for full distance learning in the event of an outbreak.