Mercyhurst University will finish out the semester virtually as COVID-19 cases continue to surge in Erie County, university officials announced in a letter to students Monday. 

Several additional positive cases on the Mercyhurst campus were reported over the weekend, which factored into the decision to remain virtual. 

According to the letter, campus services remain available with enhanced precautions. Dining services, masses and student activities - including Hurst for the Holidays events - will continue as currently scheduled. 

Students who work on campus will be permitted to continue working at the discretion of their supervisor. Student-athletes will receive additional communication from their coaches and the Mercyhurst Department of Athletics. 

University officials recommend that students who choose to return home discuss their plans with family and follow the recommended 14-day quarantine period prior to returning to their communities. 

A 14-day wind down period will begin tomorrow as part of the school's end-of-semester planning. Officials ask that students are especially mindful during this period to wear masks and practice social distancing. 

Mercyhurst announced last week it will transition to virtual learning as a result of several clusters of COVID-19 on campus. 

The original virtual instruction period was set to end Wednesday, Nov. 11.