COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- Health officials in Texas are investigating after a college student is suspected of contracting a case of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
According to Texas A&M University, one of its students may have a possible case of novel coronavirus.
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
"Texas A&M continues to work with its Student Health Services and the Brazos County Health District. Officials have described the immediate health risk to the campus community as low," the university said on its website.
According to the Brazos County Health District, the student traveled from Wuhan, China, where the coronavirus originated.
Upon realizing that the student met the criteria for coronavirus testing, a precautionary testing was done on the student and they are being kept isolated at home.
Earlier in the evening, China's National Health Commission announced the number of cases of a new respiratory virus has risen to 830 with 25 deaths.
Those that have traveled to Wuhan, China and have flu like symptoms are asked to call the health district at 979-361-4440.
The Brazos County Health District said on its site that the public is encouraged to follow these preventative measures:
• 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.
