Statement from Dr. Tom Nary,
University Health Services 3-21-20
While we have had no reported cases of COVID-19 among students, faculty or staff on campus, we have received reports of positive test results from 12 BC students (grad and undergrad) who either studied abroad and returned directly home from overseas, lived off campus, or studied on campus this semester. Most of the cases involve students who studied in Europe and returned home while bypassing BC.
The 12 are self-reported cases from conscientious students who informed BC Health Services of their positive test findings.
Their local public health authorities and UHS at Boston College will conduct contact tracing to identify individuals with whom they were in close contact, which is defined by public health authorities as being within 6 feet of an individual who was symptomatic for at least 15 minutes in a closed area.
Individuals who are not contacted by health authorities should not be concerned about exposure.However, any individual who develops symptoms should contact their local health provider for guidance.
Any student testing positive for COVID-19 is encouraged to contact UHS. We will provide updates as information is received.
Students who remain on campus and have health concerns should call UHS for guidance.
The situation is fluid and will change each day. Please monitor the coronavirus website at www.bc.edu/coronavirus for updates.
Dr. Tom Nary
University Health Services