UND Mandates Masks, Tests in Grand Forks Flu Surge

GRAND FORKS, N.D. — The University of North Dakota implemented mandatory masking and weekly testing for students on April 25, 2026, following a sharp rise in influenza cases on its Grand Forks campus. University officials reported 127 confirmed cases among students since April 15, with 45 new infections over the past week, prompting the emergency health protocol. Student Health Services Director Dr. Emily Larson announced the measures in a campus-wide email, citing a 300% increase in flu-like illnesses compared to last spring[6][7]. The protocols require all students to wear masks in indoor common areas, including dorms, classrooms and the Memorial Union, and undergo rapid antigen testing twice weekly through Student Health Services clinics. Exemptions apply only for medical reasons, verified by physicians. UND's Be Healthy Hawks campaign, active since fall 2023, promotes flu vaccinations, with over 2,500 shots administered this season—yet vaccination rates lag at 42% among undergraduates[6]. Local context ties the outbreak to North Dakota's harsh winter, where indoor gatherings fueled community spread; Grand Forks Public Health reports 350 flu cases citywide since March[initial Bismarck Tribune report]. Drawing from CDC guidelines, UND's response includes droplet precautions for 7 days post-illness onset or until 24 hours fever-free without medication, whichever is longer[4]. Students must self-isolate in dorm rooms, avoiding classes or public transport while symptomatic. Environmental controls mandate daily disinfection of high-touch surfaces in residence halls like Twinberry and Maple Hall. "This flu strain is hitting young adults hard, spreading rapidly in close quarters," Larson said, echoing national trends where campuses enforce respiratory hygiene and hand sanitizer access[1][4]. As of April 29, cases continue to climb, with surveillance ongoing for two incubation periods—about 8 days—after the last reported illness[2][3]. UND canceled large events like the spring Hawk Fest through May 10 and shifted some classes online. State health officials in Bismarck praise the proactive steps, noting North Dakota's flu hospitalizations up 25% statewide. Students like sophomore engineering major Alex Thompson report compliance but frustration: "Masks again? It's disruptive, but flu's knocked out half my floor."[7]