Friday, September 25, 2020
UNT World Faculty & Staff:
Now roughly one month into the fall semester, I’m happy to report that while nothing is flawless, our coronavirus safety protocols are working. Below is a summary of data we released on Sept. 18 as part of a formal public information request by the New York Times.
At UNT, the total number of COVID-19 tests completed as part of our university program is 3,403. This includes random testing and patient-requested testing performed at our Student Health & Wellness Center, as well as routine testing performed as part of our NCAA Division I athletics testing program. Out of these we have had just 69 positives. In addition faculty, staff and students have voluntarily reported 152 positive tests performed by others. Between UNT Dallas and UNT Health Science Center, we have less than 40 positive cases reported.
This good news doesn't mean we can put our guard down, as we've seen several institutions of higher education become coronavirus hot spots. Some positive COVID-19 cases are inevitable, but by continuing to follow safety guidelines we can continue to keep those numbers low. When positive cases occur, our contract tracing protocols will help isolate exposure and limit the spread of the virus – your support of these efforts is greatly appreciated.
UNT FOOTBALL AT HOUSTON CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19 CONCERNS
We will continue to put the safety of our students, faculty, staff and communities
first, and sometimes we will have to make hard choices. UNT made the responsible decision to cancel this Saturday's football game at the University
of Houston due to positive COVID-19 cases. Per Vice President & Director of Athletics Wren Baker: “Our student-athlete health
and safety is the priority in every decision we make and that is what this difficult
decision is based on. We are hopeful we can resume safe activities soon.”
Thank you to our system-wide coronavirus response team for creating and executing a plan that's keeping our students, faculty and staff as safe as possible during this challenging time.
Thank you,
Lesa B. Roe
Chancellor