WACO (WBAP/KLIF) – Two Texas college students suspected of the coronavirus tested negative for the illness.
The virus is responsible for more than 80 deaths in China.
Late last week the Brazos County Health District announced that a Texas A&M student who recently traveled to China showed symptoms of the virus. Sunday it was confirmed the test was negative.
Baylor University said Monday that a student suspected of coming down with coronavirus also tested negative.
“This is very good news, and we are deeply grateful to our local and University health care providers and officials and the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District for their approach to this case, their proactive guidance and expertise and the compassionate care extended to our student while we awaited the CDC results,” said Sharon W. Stern, M.D., medical director for Baylor University Health Services. “We continue to take this issue seriously and remain vigilant. Our prayers are with all those affected and for the doctors, nurses and other health officials who are working to understand and contain the virus.”
University officials stressed that there are no other suspected cases of Novel Coronavirus within the Baylor community at this time. As part of a coordinated response, the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District and Baylor informed the campus community about the possible case. While waiting for results, Baylor followed guidance from the WMCPHD and the CDC guidance and, as a precaution, moved the individual to an isolated room on campus with its own HVAC system. That room was not located in a residence hall, the University confirmed.
Facility Services did thoroughly sanitize the student’s residence hall room, as well as the residence hall where the individual lives. During the isolation period, the student was monitored by Baylor, state and local health officials. The University also worked with the student to make sure needs were being met during the isolation period.
According to state health officials, any student, faculty or staff member who has traveled to Wuhan, China, after December 1 and presents with flu-like symptoms that include fever, cough, shortness of breath and sore throat should seek medical care right away.
Listen to Clayton Neville’s story below: