More testing options are now available for students at Illinois State University, as President Larry Dietz warned Redbirds against attending large off-campus parties.
Photos have circulated on social media over the past few days, showing crowds at apparent off-campus parties on the weekend before classes resumed Monday.
Dietz said “what happens at colleges and universities across the state” would impact health and safety metrics Gov. JB Pritzker will use to evaluate whether to pull Illinois back into a more restrictive phase of reopening.
“While responding to a large, off-campus gathering this past weekend, officials observed hundreds of people not following the most basic tenets of coronavirus safety — ignoring protocols for physical distancing and the wearing of face-coverings,” Dietz said. “Although I cannot confirm all involved were Illinois State students, that is the perception. I cannot overemphasize how important it is that we follow all public health guidance. It is provided for the sole purpose of protecting each of us from contracting COVID-19.”
It’s unclear how many ISU students are currently residing in Normal. Most classes are entirely online. Dorms are open — albeit with new precautions — and many students had already signed leases at off-campus apartments when the pandemic worsened. Others don't have another permanent residence which to return.
Meanwhile, new testing options are now available for students who are not experiencing symptoms.
Testing is now available on the Quad between Schroeder and Edwards halls, as well as at the former fire station, 602 N. Adelaide St., near Cardinal Court, according to the Student Health Services website. Students must show their Redbird ID card.
That surveillance testing of asymptomatic students is part of a contract ISU signed with Pekin-based Reditus Labs, worth up to $3.3 million through December.
Students with symptoms can be tested at Student Health Services.
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