Between 3–9 May, the highest number of COVID-19 cases among students and staff was reported for this year so far – 14 members of staff and 25 students, a total of 39 people. Yet, not all students and staff inform their teachers or managers if they have confirmed disease, particularly those who have not been at the university, so the hidden numbers may be significant.
On Thursday 6 May, the contact tracing department at Region Västerbotten warned the university that many cases of infection could be linked to student parties over the Walpurgis weekend (Valborg). On behalf of the Region, the university issued an open letter from the Vice-Chancellor to all students on Friday, containing a reminder for everyone to socialise with fewer people and follow other guidelines and recommendations.
The number of reported infected staff has also increased significantly. Hence, the Crisis Management Team is now issuing a reminder to everyone of what applies.
"The university's aim is for everyone to be able to return to campus this autumn semester, and to succeed, we need to do this together," says Vice-Chancellor Hans Adolfsson.
This applies at Umeå University
- Avoid working in and visiting university premises.
- Work from home to the extent possible.
- Keep your distance to others if you must visit the premises.
- Use a face mask in situations where you cannot avoid close contact.
- Limit your physical contacts to a few and the same individuals.
- Stay at home if you have symptoms of disease – even mild symptoms.
- Carry out all your meetings online, otherwise postpone them.
- Do not carry out any events in university premises.
- Be very restrictive regarding business travel.
- Conduct teaching and examination using online means as far as possible.
- Inform your manager if you have confirmed COVID-19.
These measures apply until 29 August. Also, regularly check out umu.se/en/covid-19 for updates.
Read the Vice-Chancellor's letter to all students.
Extended recommendations regionally
The serious situation in the local county has made Region Västerbotten extend its stricter recommendations until 23 May. These will be extended in two-week periods until the situation has drastically changed for the better. The recommendations state that all citizens must socialise with few people, avoid places where there is a risk of crowding, continue to work from home as much as possible, travel safe from infection, use a mask on public transportation and in indoor environments when you meet people outside your immediate circle.
Read the details of the extended recommendations in Västerbotten
Questions?
If you have questions or comments about the university's information or handling of COVID-19, please contact the Crisis Management Team on corona@umu.se.