After the holiday season surge in cases, declines were seen throughout California, leading Gov. Gavin Newsom to lift California’s stay at home order on Jan. 26. Despite the downward trend, Los Angeles County health officials advised residents to be careful with both the Super Bowl LV and Valentine’s Day celebrations. 

SUPER SPREADER

On Feb. 2, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its website regarding the discoveries of three new coronavirus strains. Though these strains were originally found in Brazil, South Africa and the United Kingdom, California is responsible for more than half of the cases. 

As of Super Bowl day, there have been 3,123 new reported cases of COVID-19 in L.A. County. Although the numbers caused by the Super Bowl are still unavailable, health officials predict an increase in positives throughout the country.  

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR BIOLANS

Following Biola’s outbreak announcement on Jan. 29 and subsequent clearance a week after, the university still strives to reopen campus for all students on March 1. 

Phase 3 students received an update informing them of in-person chapel details, a challenge many will face while coming back on campus. Although the requirement is not new, COVID-19 poses a threat to the safety of those events.