VSU updated its active number of COVID-19 cases reported on campus from Feb.7 through Feb. 11 and there had been only nine reported cases between students and faculty.

According to South Georgia Medical Center, adults between the ages of 19 and 29 has the highest rate of positive COVID-19 cases at 22.83%. Due to the decrease in active COVID-19 cases and the emergence of at-home tests, SGMC has announced that they will be ending the availability of drive-thru testing and giving out vaccines to the public.

In response to the pandemic, VSU’s health center continues to provide Pfizer and Moderna vaccinations and booster shots to students, faculty and staff. As of now, vaccines and masks are still not mandated on campus.

However, VSU still encourages students and faculty to wear mask to protect others. The University also uses incentives to encourage members to get their vaccination shots.

On Wednesday, Feb. 16, an email was sent out to introduce a drawing for those who are newly vaccinated or received the booster shot since Nov. 21., which includes winning an Apple Watch, $75 Amazon gift credit and $50 flex credit, taking place on March 9.

Vice President, Vincent Miller, shares his opinion on the decline in positive COVID-19 cases on campus.

“I believe we have continued to refine our practice of managing the pandemic since the start in mid-2020 which has helped the overall campus community,” Miller said.

Even with the emergence of the delta and omicron variants, the number of positive cases still seem to be lower on campus than it was in the previous year, even without mask mandates being in effect.

Some students feel as though COVID-19 would soon be recognized in the same way that the flu is treated now.

“I think we’re at a point where the virus is becoming like the typical flu-season that we deal with,” Lily Hines, sophomore art major, said.

According to Miller, in order to keep the exposure of the virus low students should continue social distancing and get vaccinated.

“If you experience symptoms of COVID, go to the Student Health Center and see a health professional. In doing so, avoid others and wear a mask,” Miller said. “If you are not experiencing COVID continue to practice good hygiene measures, be mindful of your distance around others and take preventative measure.”

Written by Samiriya Hamilton, Staff Writer. Photo courtesy of VSU.