The university this morning also “learned of an individual linked to our campus which the Ingham County Health Department is currently investigating and monitoring,” according to the notification.  

“Due to this, we are now taking additional steps to keep our community safe,” MSU President Samuel Stanley wrote in an additional email to the campus community. 

The transition to virtual instruction will happen at noon on Wednesday.

“Effective today at noon, MSU is suspending face-to-face instruction in lectures, seminars and classroom settings and moving coursework to virtual instruction,” according to Stanley’s email. “This suspension of in-person classes will last until Monday, April 20 and we will reevaluate this decision on an ongoing basis, sharing additional updates or modifications as more information becomes available.”

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency on Tuesday night in Michigan after two individuals tested positive for the coronavirus in Wayne and Oakland counties. 

The campus will remain open, but large events already scheduled at MSU are being evaluated. The university won’t schedule additional events with more than 100 people unless special circumstances apply.

During the period of virtual instruction, students can return to their permanent residence and work remotely, per the email. MSU is strongly recommending this because there are “advantages for social distancing.”

“But for those not able to go home, we will continue to fully support students in our residence halls and dining facilities,” Stanley wrote. 

Stay with The State News for updates.