Monmouth University: Number Of Active COVID Cases Cut In Half

WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ — After a "superspreader" event at Monmouth University in early October, the West Long Branch college has now "effectively halved" its number of active coronavirus cases, Monmouth U. president Patrick Leahy announced.

Monmouth University was at a peak of 193 active COVID cases on Oct. 6, but as of Friday is now down to 96 active cases.

The number of students who were in quarantine is also down, from 274 on Oct. 5 to 82 on Oct. 16.

Monmouth U. gave few details on what the superspreader event was, only to say that it happened at an off-campus event two weeks ago and more than 100 active COVID cases could be linked to it.

In reaction to that, Monmouth University moved all classes online only, closed all indoor dining, closed the campus pool and fitness center and also halted all sports team practices for the past two weeks.

Gatherings of any kind greater than five people were prohibited. Students had to wear masks at all times, unless they were alone in their dorm room.

However, as of Friday, Leahy said those restrictions are being lifted. In-person and hybrid learning will resume, and indoor dining has reopened, albeit at 25 percent.

Members of the Monmouth University community can be tested Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with no appointment needed. All specimens are being sent to the state lab, which reports a 24-48 hour test turnaround time.

Related: Monmouth: 100-Plus Active COVID Cases After 'Superspreader' Event (Oct. 12)