Oklahoma State University

As workplaces and schools go online to prevent the spread of COVID-19, many people are relying on a strong internet connection. But in some states, less than 50% of rural households have access to broadband, according to data from the Federal Communications Commission.

First restaurants and school cafeterias closed, then COVID-19 outbreaks at meat-packing plants slowed processing. In the spring, shoppers started seeing signs declaring limits on the amount of fresh meat they could buy in one trip. Prices for some products crept up.

The COVID-19 mortality rate continues to be higher in rural parts of the state than urban areas, according to analysis of state data by the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Health. Rural areas make up 34% of Oklahoma’s population but account for 36% of all COVID-19 deaths in the state since April.

As of Sept. 11, the cumulative mortality is about 24 per 100,000 people in rural areas. This is slightly higher than urban areas.

As colleges start their semesters, they’re dealing with increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases. Oklahoma’s two largest universities are trying mitigate the spread.

Mask mandates continue to be top of mind for Oklahoma officials. As one city council voted to extend theirs, state officials maintained that containing the spread should rest on personal responsibility.

As colleges across Oklahoma kickoff their fall semesters, risky behavior among students has already caused some concern.

On Saturday, Oklahoma State University announced nearly two dozen COVID-19 infections at an off-campus sorority house.

The release said the 23 positive COVID cases were determined though rapid antigen testing at an off-campus health care facility.

The sorority is currently quarantined and members are prohibited from leaving the house. One of the infected members does not live in the chapter house, but will also be quarantined.

Oklahoma State University’s annual homecoming celebration is yet another casualty of the coronavirus.

Seven states have seen animals infected with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), which causes blister-like lesions in and around the mouth of horses and other livestock.