Cases among NTU students begin to rise again, data shows

Latest data released by Nottingham Trent University shows a slight increase in coronavirus cases among students.

The most recent data says that the rolling seven-day total of confirmed cases among students was 14 on February 9 and February 10.

This is in comparison to a rolling seven-day total of just three and four among staff on the same dates.

An increase in cases within the student community comes after a run of six days in which the rolling total was less than ten.

While the latest data shows an increase on previous data, cases continue to be at a low level as the majority of students are taught online.

This is in contrast to cases midway through last year when the rolling seven day confirmed cases was over 1,000 for five consecutive days.

Cases of coronavirus have dipped following an increase in January. Data Source: NTU

It remains unknown as to when students will be allowed to return to campus; however, it is likely to be a mixture of in-person and online teaching.

Earlier this month the Guardian reported that Education Secretary Gavin Williamson is planning a “phased” return for students.

They reported that final year students in practical subjects would be the ones mostly likely to return first, while other students would follow ā€œsoon afterwardsā€.

Universities minister Michelle Donelan, meanwhile, has previously said that universities would follow the same roadmap as schools.

The Government are set to review data this week (beginning February 15) on death rates, virus rates, the vaccination programme and how the NHS is coping.

On February 22 they will then announce the outcome of the review with students possibly returning on March 8 if all goes to plan.

By Matt Lee

Lead Image: Olimpia Zagnat

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