ECU Department of Greek Life Statement on COVID clusters in specific fraternities, sororities

Today, Sept. 10, 2020, the University announced clusters of COVID-19 cases within the memberships of 13 different ECU fraternities and sororities. A “cluster” is defined by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services as a minimum of five cases with illness onset or initial positive results within a 14-day period and plausible epidemiological link between cases. A cluster can be defined by location or group. “Location” is defined as a single residential hall or dwelling. A “group,” such as an athletic team, student organization or Greek chapter only moves from the active category after going 28 days without a new positive case.

We continue to be concerned for the health and safety or our students and are happy to know that many of these students have already recovered. The clusters reported are from entire chapter memberships and are not specific to chapter houses, as not all groups have houses and only smaller numbers of organization members live in these facilities.

The Department of Greek Life continues to work with the student leaders, alumni advisors, and national offices to provide information and support to our students. ECU Student Health Services continues to work directly with any organizations where students have tested positive to help them manage cases through contact tracing as well as quarantine and isolation protocols.

Since the beginning of the academic year, several efforts have been made by the fraternity and sorority community in consultation with the University. Some of the efforts include:

1. Most chapter houses have restricted access to only residents;
2. All fall recruitment activities have occurred virtually, and new member activities will continue virtually for the rest of the semester; and
3. Chapter meetings and planned events are being held virtually when numbers would exceed the current State of NC mandate on gatherings.

The Department of Greek Life appreciates the efforts made by our fraternity and sorority community to help slow the spread of COVID in the community and encourages all students to continue to follow these important protocols.

1. Complete daily health screenings and seek assistance from Student Health Services if the screening recommends them to do so immediately.
2. Students should not come to campus if they are symptomatic and should contact ECU Student Health Services at 252-328-6841.
3. Follow directives from Student Health Services or other medical professionals regarding quarantine or isolation.
4. Assist with contact tracing efforts to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
5. Continue to wear masks, wash hands, and social distance when in groups.

For additional information, contact Jamie Smith with ECU News Services at 252-328-1162 or John Mountz, director of the Department of Greek Life at mountzj17@ecu.edu.