(NPR) The University of Alabama is reporting more than 560 new cases of COVID-19 across its three campuses and medical center less than a week after starting classes.
According to data from a university dashboard, students, staff and faculty at the university’s main campus, Tuscaloosa, account for 531 of the total confirmed cases since Aug. 19.
“The rise we’ve seen in recent days is unacceptable, and if unchecked, threatens our ability to complete the rest of the semester on campus,” University of Alabama President Stuart Bell said at a press conference Monday. “Now is the time for action.”