There are currently no confirmed cases of Coronavirus COVID-19 in West Virginia. However, University officials continue to closely monitor the situation and are developing plans should the threat of COVID-19 increase in the area.
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources announced on Sat., March 7, 2020, that testing for COVID-19 can now be performed in-state by DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health’s lab. Prior to this point, West Virginia submitted tests of individuals who were considered at significant risk of having COVID-19 to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for testing.
Visit WVU’s website dedicated to information about COVID-19 and the University’s response and plans should the virus begin to affect the institution and community. The website, http://coronavirus.wvu.edu, includes general information as well as links to more detailed information for specific audiences such as students, faculty, staff and the general community.
Students with health questions or concerns should contact WVU Medicine Student Health at 304-285-7200. WVU faculty and staff should reach out to their primary health provider. Additional information can be found on the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources’ website.
University employees and students should continue to monitor their email inboxes, as well as the website, for updates.
Remember, health officials say the best steps to avoid contracting COVID-19 are:
Washing your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.
Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or the bend of your elbow, not your hands.
Using the nearest waste receptacle to dispose of the tissue after use.
Avoiding contact with sick or affected individuals.
Additionally, sick individuals are urged to stay home.