Positive case of COVID-19 confirmed at WVU residence hall

West Virginia University was notified Sunday afternoon (April 12) by the Monongalia County Health Department that a resident in one of its residence halls tested positive for coronavirus COVID-19.  

WVU is working with MCHD and West Virginia’s state public health officials to ensure the health and safety of all residents and employees who have recently been working in the Evansdale Residential Complex, more commonly referred to as Towers. The following steps are being implemented, effective immediately:  

• The individual who tested positive has been isolated.
• Residents in the Evansdale Residential Complex also must remain in self-quarantine until they are tested for COVID-19 and the test results are known.
• All residents, as well employees who have been working in the Evansdale Residential Complex, will begin being tested tomorrow morning, Monday, April 13.
• The Evansdale Café, as well as all community restrooms and gathering areas in the Evansdale Residential Complex, have gone through or are undergoing a deep cleaning beginning this afternoon.
• In addition, a care package with a mask, gloves and cleaning supplies will be delivered to each resident’s room later this evening. Meals deliveries also will be arranged for residents beginning tomorrow, Monday, April 13.  

MCHD is contact tracing to alert anyone who may have been in close contact with the individual in recent days.  

Continue to follow the Governor’s order to stay at home and MCHD’s guidance to wear a mask or face cover in public.  

A reminder that all should continue adhering to good hygiene practices including washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.  

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people and stay home as much as possible.  

If you are feeling sick, call first before seeking medical care. Students with health questions or concerns should contact WVU Medicine Student Health at (304) 285-7200. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources established a hotline to address questions and concerns. Operators are available 24/7, toll-free at (800) 887-4304 . WVU Medicine Urgent Care is also offering virtual video visits at no cost.  

Other questions may be directed to the MCHD at (304) 598-5100 or email coronavirus@mail.wvu.edu.  

-WVU-

sm/04/12/20

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