The University of Oklahoma has closed its Norman campus through March 20 after a member of that campus community tested positive for COVID-19.
In a statement issued to staff and faculty, Interim President Joseph Harroz Jr. told non-essential employees not to report to work.
During the closure, the campus will employ a contractor who specials in critical cleaning functions to deep clean the impacted areas of campus using disinfectants that kill the virus.
Residential housing will remain open during the closing, but Harroz encouraged students who already departed for spring break to stay away.
The OU Health Sciences Center and OU-Tulsa campuses will remain open, but employees are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing, hand hygiene and covering of coughs and sneezes.
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In Stillwater, Oklahoma State University announced a reduction in services following the disaster declarations for the City of Stillwater and the State of Oklahoma. A statement released from OSU Sunday night said, "After consulting with Payne County health officials, Oklahoma State University will begin limiting access to high-traffic areas."
This is effective Monday, March 16 and includes the closure of the Colvin Recreation Center, the OSU Museum of Art and a reduction of Student Union dining services to 'to-go' only.
Employees were still asked to report to work as planned until OSU determines next steps forward. Employees are, however, encouraged to practice social distancing. This includes reducing or eliminating in-person meetings and allowing six feet of distance from other people.
