COLUMBUS – As Ohio and the nation set records for daily reported COVID-19 cases, officials are taking steps to slow the spread in schools and on college campuses.
The Columbus City Schools announced that seven schools would conduct classes remotely on Wednesday, including Eastmoor Academy, Independence High School, Linden-McKinley STEM Academy and South High School.
Columbus Metropolitan Library announced Tuesday that it was extending its Sunday closures until further notice due to continued staffing shortages.
Effective Monday, January 12, we are suspending public visitation at both Corrections Centers due to a recent significant increase in confirmed COVID cases in Franklin County. Professional visitors will be allowed non-contact visits. pic.twitter.com/bzFn2al8EC
— Franklin County Sheriff’s Office (@OHFCSO) January 5, 2022
Ohio State University and Ohio University are both requiring students to take COVID-19 tests before returning for spring semester classes this month.
OSU students living in university housing will have to take a rapid antigen test when they arrive this weekend and those who test positive will have to isolate for five days, either at home or in a hotel, according to updated safety precautions detaild on the university website.
Fraternity and sorority members who live off-campus will have to take tests during the week of Jan. 10.
Students living in dorms, and members of sororities and fraternities, will be required to complete weekly PCR testing, regardless of their vaccinations status.
Ohio University students are required to take an at-home test before returning to campus, whether they live in dorms or off-campus housing. Faculty and staff are strongly encouraged to take tests.
Seating capacity at dining halls at Ohio State will be at 40% to allow for additional physical distancing. Grab-and-go meal options, with mobile ordering, will be expanded
Starting with the Buckeye women’s basketball game against Illinois on Thursday, concessions at all athletic events will be closed, though water will be available. Fans will not be allowed to bring food or beverages into athletic facilities, the Department of Athletics announced Tuesday.