Royal Holloway Coronavirus cases increase

What does this mean for students?


Today, Thursday 15th of October, the college released an update on the number of Coronavirus cases affecting those in the Royal Holloway community. The update, released on their website as well as the staff and student intranet, stated that “As of Tuesday 13 October, there are 23 students and no members of staff who are currently self-isolating after testing positive for coronavirus (Covid-19).”

RHUL Founders Building

They have been testing for COVID-19 on campus

The number of cases at Royal Holloway has gradually increased in the last two weeks. On September 28, there was only one reported case. Last week, there are were 16 reported cases at RHUL, 15 of which are students and 1 member of staff. This accumulation of cases was expected with the start of the Autumn term despite the college’s efforts to reduce cases by accommodating and adapting the academic and social aspects of university life.

Overall, Public Health England has stated that there have been Covid-19 breakouts in over 70 institutions. More universities are halting face-to-face teaching following the spike and, according to the Guardian, the government may be planning to enact a two-week pre-Christmas lockdown from 8 December to 22 December, whilst also implying that there will be moving all learning online.

It is overwhelming, however, this reminder of our current situation urges you all to stay safe and follow the guidelines.

For more information about on-campus security, you can check out the student intranet.