UNCC reports first COVID-19 cluster involving 8 students at off-campus residences

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The University of North Carolina at Charlotte and the Mecklenburg County Health Department have identified an off-campus COVID-19 cluster involving several students.

Officials announced that the cluster involved eight students who lived together in two private residences.

The students have self-isolated, followed the health department guidelines and have since recovered, according to officials.

UNCC has not started classes for the fall semester yet, but school leaders said they wanted to raise campus and community awareness.

A “cluster” is defined as five or more cases that are considered to be within close proximity or location. UNCC said it is committed to notifying the community of any known clusters that involve employees or students, even if it is off-campus.

According to the COVID-19 dashboard, as of Aug. 31, the school has seven active on-campus cases. Since July 1, the university has had 56 employees and students report positive cases.

In an effort to detect and prevent the spread of coronavirus, the school has started to regularly sample and monitor wastewater at several campus residence halls. Officials said research shows the virus appears in wastewater several days before someone starts showing symptoms.

The fall semester is expected to begin on Sept. 7 for all students.

UNCC delays in-person instruction for 3 weeks; virtual learning begins September 7

Cox Media Group