Sustaining University Operations During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Higher Education Administration

Background:

• Universities worldwide implemented varied strategies to manage the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Baylor University, a large institution, successfully resumed and maintained operations.
• A proactive, community-based approach was essential for pandemic management in higher education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the specific strategies employed by Baylor University to sustain campus operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary team and risk mitigation model in controlling viral spread.
• To provide a replicable framework for other institutions facing similar public health challenges.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of multidisciplinary teams to devise mitigation strategies.
• Implementation of the "Swiss Cheese" risk mitigation model.
• Systematic testing, surveillance, contact tracing, isolation, and quarantine protocols.
• Enforcement of health measures including face coverings and social distancing.

Main Results:

• Campus operations were sustained from August 1 to December 8, 2020.
• A total of 62,970 COVID-19 tests were conducted, yielding a 2.28% positivity rate (1435 positive cases).
• A robust contact tracing system was in place with over 120 personnel.

Conclusions:

• The integrated approach of multidisciplinary teams and the "Swiss Cheese" model proved effective in managing COVID-19.
• Lessons learned offer a valuable framework for other universities to sustain operations during pandemics.
• Proactive public health interventions are critical for the continuity of higher education.