Concord Prepares For College Students To Return For Thanksgiving

CONCORD, MA — Concord is getting ready for college students to return to town for Thanksgiving, either to spend the holiday with family or to close out their semesters remotely. Concord's Board of Health is offering guidance to limit the potential spread of COVID-19.

Everyone who will be returning home to Massachusetts from a higher risk state must get a COVID-19 test. Tests should use a molecular (PCR) SARS-CoV2 test on a sample obtained within 72 hours of arrival. Information about where to obtain a test can be found online.

Town officials said every returning college student should be tested to catch asymptomatic people before they are able to spread the disease to friends and family during the holidays. Anyone returning to the State must quarantine for 14 days or until a negative result is produced.

"Although we understand returning college students are eager to see their friends, the Board of Health is asking Concord parents to discourage their college-age students from casual socialization with friends indoors and in groups," the town said in a statement.

Masks must also be worn if outdoors per the new Massachusetts guidance which went into effect on Nov. 6.

Many college age students have younger siblings who attend Concord Public Schools, so any spread of COVID-19 amongst college age students and their families has the potential to impact the ability to keep schools open. School Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter said “The best way for us to protect our students and our community is for us to remain vigilant and encourage safe and healthy behaviors.”