Friday, October 16, 2020 - 17:30
Cluster of Positive COVID-19 Cases in Isla Vista

This emergency notification is being sent because the University and the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department (SBCPHD) have identified two separate clusters of positive COVID-19 cases in privately-owned fraternity and sorority houses in the Isla Vista community. Thirteen individuals residing in the two separate houses have tested positive for COVID-19. The impacted individuals have been self-isolating since being tested. The houses have been placed in quarantine on the orders of SBCPHD, and public health officials are leading contract tracing and outreach efforts.

Your health and safety are our top priority, and the university is working closely with public health officials to determine whether there are members of the campus community who need to be advised about their contact with these individuals. 

We have set up a COVID-19 Call Center for medical, testing, housing, registration, and other questions related to our COVID-19 response. It is operational weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (805) 893-3113. You may also reach them at ucsb-covid19@ucsb.edu.

Our protocols are consistent with California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and CDC recommendations: screening, isolating, and testing individuals who have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection. By following statewide and national protocols, we are ensuring that we enact scientifically proven methods of responding in the most effective manner. 

The most important individual actions that all members of our community can take are:

  • PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING IN THE COMMUNITY. Avoid crowded places and social gatherings. Gatherings in Santa Barbara County are currently prohibited by order of the Health Officer. Minimize unnecessary contact with others.
  • Keep your distance from others. It is recommended to be at least 6 feet from people in close spaces (cafes, elevators, library, etc.).
  • Wear face coverings in common and public indoor spaces and outdoors when distancing is not possible.
  • Wash your hands for more than 20 seconds with soap and water.
  • IF YOU ARE SICK, STAY HOME. Expect to be home for two weeks.
  • Have a plan in case you get sick. Include the following items in your plan:
    • How are you going to isolate yourself (how long, where)? 
    • Who are you to contact if you have symptoms (doctor phone number, Student Health, friend, family member)? 
    • If you are in isolation and have a need, who will you contact?
  • Stay calm. We understand this is a stressful situation for everybody, but remember that we can work together to get this pandemic under control.

Up-to-date information is available online at: