GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Another Grand Rapids Community College student tested positive for COVID-19, three days after the college learned of its first student that also tested positive for the new virus.
The first student showed symptoms on March 17 and was tested on March 19. The college learned of the student's results on March 20. On March 23, another student's test results came back positive, the Kent County Health Department and state authorities told GRCC.
College officals said Monday there is "little to no risk" to others at the college. It has been conducting online classes since March 16 and will continue to do so through the end of the semester following Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's stay-at-home order issued Monday.
“Our first thoughts are with this student as they continue to recover,” GRCC President Bill Pink said about the first student who tested positive for the new virus.
“As a campus community, we will continue to take proactive steps to limit the spread of coronavirus. The safety and wellness of all of our students and employees continue to be our top priority as we face this crisis together.”
The first student who tested positive for the coronavirus is in isolation and the Kent County Health Department has worked with the student to figure out who their close contacts are. The health department determined the student has very few close contacts who have been asked to self-monitor for 14 days.
As of Monday, there are 28 Kent County COVID-19 cases and one death.
STATE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COVID-19
Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:
- If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.
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