At the time of writing, UMKC reported 31 COVID-19 cases on campus since Sept. 6, more than doubling the amount from the previous week. Campus has reported a total of 50 cases since students returned to campus on Aug. 17.
Each report of new on-campus cases published by UMKC lists locations visited by the infected individuals (see graphic for a list of locations frequented by infected persons). This location data indicates that Swinney Recreation Center has become a hotspot on campus for coronavirus cases. Fifteen individuals had visited Swinney Recreation Center in the time leading up to their positive test result.
As of Sept. 10, UMKC has recorded 38 off-campus coronavirus cases among employees and staff.
At the University of Missouri (MU), UMKC’s sister school, data indicates 363 new cases have been added since Sept. 5. There are currently 562 active student cases at the school, which accounts for about 2.1% of the student body.
In order to combat the spread of coronavirus on campus, UMKC implemented measures that made violations of state and local health codes (such as not wearing a mask) count as violations of UMKC’s Standard of Conduct. This could result in school-mandated disciplinary measures for those who violate health codes.
On Sept. 14, three weeks after the beginning of fall classes, coronavirus case data for UMKC will be used to establish the “baseline campus incidence,” according to a UMKC document This number will be used in comparisons between the campus and the surrounding community over time. These comparisons will factor into decisions made by the university in considering whether to maintain an in-person campus presence.
samuelbellefy@mail.umkc.edu
