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COVID-19 associated with universities in England, October 2020-February 2022.
Public Health
|September 24, 2023
Summary
COVID-19 cases in English universities were lower than expected, with student infection rates varying by institution. University characteristics like campus type and student housing influenced case numbers, informing future public health guidance.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Higher Education
Background:
- Understanding COVID-19 transmission dynamics in university settings is crucial for public health.
- Previous studies have highlighted the unique challenges of managing infectious diseases in student populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology of COVID-19 cases among university students and staff in England from October 2020 to February 2022.
- To investigate university-specific factors associated with COVID-19 rates among students during the autumn/winter of 2021/22.
Main Methods:
- An observational retrospective study utilizing routine contact tracing data.
- Count regression analysis was employed to identify university characteristics linked to COVID-19 case numbers.
Main Results:
- Over 102,000 student and 28,000 staff COVID-19 cases were identified.
- Student cases mirrored general population trends, but the proportion of 18-24 year olds who were students was consistently below expectations (32%).
- Russell Group membership, campus-based universities, and higher proportions of students in halls of residence correlated with increased case numbers.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 case numbers varied significantly among English university students, remaining below community prevalence levels.
- Specific university characteristics are associated with higher infection rates, providing valuable insights for future public health strategies in higher education.
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