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Three more test positive for COVID-19

March 12, 2020

Three additional positive cases of coronavirus COVID-19 have been announced March 12 in Delaware, bringing the total positive cases in Delaware to four. 

The individuals are not severely ill and are currently self-isolated at home, said Jen Brestel, spokeswoman for the Delaware Division of Public Health. All three individuals are under the age of 30 and are associated with the University of Delaware community, she said. UD officials said two are graduate students and one is a postdoctural researcher. On March 11, officials said a UD faculty member over 50 was the first COVID-19 case in Delaware. Officials said the man was exposed to an out-of-state person who had COVID-19. The three cases that tested positive were also in contact with the same out-of-state person, Brestel said.

Epidemiologists from the Division of Public Health are working with the patients to identify any close contacts of these individuals who were possibly exposed, Brestel said. If other people are found to have possibly been exposed, state health officials will provide guidance to these individuals and monitor them closely for the development of symptoms, she said. DPH will not be disclosing additional information about the individuals.

“We understand that news of additional cases is concerning to students, staff, and families in the University of Delaware community,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “However, DPH is working closely with the administration at the University of Delaware on their coronavirus disease response.” 

DPH has issued the following guidance for the University of Delaware community: 

  • Close contacts of these individuals, whether or not they have symptoms of illness including fever, cough, or shortness of breath, may return home during University of Delaware’s spring break. These individuals may not use public transportation to get home. They will need to remain home for at least 14 days after last contact with positive cases. 
  • Individuals who did not have contact with these individuals can return home and go about their daily lives. They should self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and contact their primary contact provider if symptoms appear. 

Students, faculty, and staff who have general questions about the University of Delaware’s response to COVID-19 can contact the University of Delaware’s Call Center at (302) 831-1188 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

 

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