UNDATED (WHTC-AM/FM) – As classes for Academic 2021 approach, various health and educational entities based along the Lakeshore have issued return to school guidance.
Based on revised Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations due to the Delta variant of COVID 19, these recommendations are meant to keep students, instructors and staff from contracting this novel coronavirus.
On Friday (Aug. 6, 2021), Grand Valley State University unveiled its safety plan for all of its campuses, including the main campus in Allendale and satellite campuses. Vaccinations will be required for all students and employees by September 30th, with face coverings for all indoors beginning on Monday (Aug. 9). “The timing we have chosen allows us to support those in our community who need more information or help in accessing a vaccine,” GVSU President Philomena Mantella said in a university statement, “and it provides assurances that we are doing all we can to keep our campus as healthy as possible.”
Shortly after Grand Valley State made its announcement, the health departments of Ottawa and Kent counties made a joint “Public Health Orders” statement, which said in part:
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All persons identified as confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases must isolate for at least 10 days as described by the CDC.
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Household close contacts of confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases are required to quarantine as described by the CDC.
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All persons in an educational setting in close contact with a COVID-19 case involved in an outbreak are required to quarantine as described by the CDC.
As to how long these restrictions will last, the joint statement by the KCHD and the OCDPH said it best: “Public health officials will continue to monitor the situation and will respond accordingly to best protect their communities.”
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