Pitt orders students to shelter in place as surge hits

The University of Pittsburgh told its 29,000 main campus students to shelter in place as of Wednesday evening, two weeks earlier than planned, as an increase in positive cases of COVID-19 continued to threaten the spring term’s final weeks and commencement season.

University officials said the school was moving to Elevated Risk. It did so a day after saying the virus was widespread in 13 of its residence halls.

“This action is being taken to respond to a consistent increase in positive cases among students,” a statement from Pitt’s COVID-19 medical response office said. “With the presence of the U.K. variant, B.1.1.7., on campus and in Allegheny County, the COVID-19 Medical Response Office (CMRO) is concerned that this trend will continue.

“Of significant concern is that the increase in positive cases since the end of last week is now among our residence hall students,” the statement added.

The shelter in place period will “remain in effect until the CMRO advises that it is safe to lift,” officials said. It originally was to begin April 16 in advance of graduation events at the end of April and early May.

During the shelter-inplace period, students should leave their rooms or apartments only to attend classes, labs or clinicals in person; pick up food; exercise safely; work when necessary; and shop for essentials and medical needs. Group work for classes and student activities should be held virtually.

Campus dining will be available via takeout only beginning with Thursday’s breakfast service. Residence hall lounges, recreation rooms and kitchens began closing Wednesday night.