WACO—A Baylor University student who recently traveled to China is being tested for a possible case of coronavirus.
Baylor announced Jan. 24 the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District notified the university that a student is being tested for the 2019 novel coronavirus. The health district is waiting for test results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Public health officials said the immediate health risk to the Baylor campus community is low.
The Centers for Disease Control believes at this time that symptoms of novel coronavirus may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure.
Working through a coordinated response with the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District and following guidelines by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Baylor moved the individual to an isolated room on campus as a precaution.
Student monitored by health officials
Baylor’s facility services also thoroughly sanitized the student’s residence hall room, as well as the residence hall where the individual lived.
The student is being monitored by Baylor, state and local health officials. The university also is working with the student to make sure needs are being met during the isolation period.
Baylor continues to work closely with University Health Services, the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District and state and federal health officials. An informational call center has been established at (888) 283-2158 for students and parents who have questions or concerns.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, any individual who traveled to China on or after Dec. 1, 2019, and who feels sick with fever, cough or difficulty breathing should:
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- Seek medical care right away. Before going to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
- Avoid contact with others.
- Not travel while sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
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