The Brazos County (Texas) Health District is investigating after a Texas A&M student may have contracted a suspected case of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
The patient traveled from Wuhan, China, where the coronavirus originated. Health care providers were aware of public health guidance on novel coronavirus and quickly recognized that the patient met the criteria for coronavirus testing.
Meanwhile, a suspected case has been reported in New Jersey.
China's National Health Commission has confirmed 830 cases of the new coronavirus with 25 deaths. A Washington man was recently diagnosed with the virus .
The patient in Texas is being kept isolated at home, while the precautionary testing is done.
Texas A&M confirmed the patient involved is a student at the university.
Texas A&M confirms possible case of coronavirus: https://t.co/xB7277sNXZ #tamu pic.twitter.com/kLAwQovih2
— Texas A&M University (@TAMU) January 23, 2020
The university said it is working with its Student Health Services and Brazos County Health District. Officials have described the immediate health risk to the campus community as low.
Students who have questions or concerns can contact A&M’s Student Health Services at info@shs.tamu.edu or on its Facebook page .
Those that have traveled to Wuhan, China and have flu like symptoms are encouraged to call the health district at 979-361-4440. Flu like symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and sore throat. If medical care is needed, please call your healthcare provider first before arriving.
Nonessential travel to Wuhan, China should be avoided.
You can view a map of the outbreak here .
The general public is encouraged to practice general preventive actions :
- Everyone 6 months and older is encouraged to get a flu shot.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
