Ohio College Students Test Negative For New Coronavirus

COLUMBUS, OH — Results have returned for two students at Miami University who were being tested for the new coronavirus. The students tested negative, meaning they do not have the virus, the Ohio Department of Health announced.

“While we are pleased to announce these results are negative, we continue to remain vigilant. We are working closely with our local health departments and health care providers and will keep you apprised of this ever-changing situation," Dr. Amy Acton, the department's director, said. “It’s also important to remember that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say the risk of the general U.S. population contracting the novel coronavirus is low."

Ohio Department of Health officials said there are no other possible cases of Wuhan Coronavirus in the state at the moment.

The investigation into the students began Jan. 27 when the Butler County General Health District reported that two students, who had been travelling in China, met criteria for further testing and evaluation. The two students were isolated while their tests were studied.

The students do not have the Wuhan Coronavirus and will no longer be in isolation.

"We are deeply grateful to the Miami University administration and health care providers and the Butler County General Health District for their measured approach to this case, their proactive guidance and expertise and the compassionate care extended to these students while we awaited the CDC results,” Acton said. “Public health teams throughout the state work 24/7 to ensure the safety of Ohioans. We are prepared to address these emerging health issues.”

There are currently 11 confirmed cases of Wuhan Coronavirus in the U.S., according to the CDC. An additional 82 cases are being investigated throughout the nation. The state nearest Ohio with a confirmed case is Illinois.

Health officials believe the Wuhan Coronavirus is primarily spread through respiratory droplets. That means, to be infected by the virus, someone must be within 6 feet of a contagious person and have them cough onto them.

Symptoms of the Wuhan Coronavirus generally appear within two to 14 days after exposure. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing. There is no vaccine to prevent the virus.

The Ohio Department of Health said preventing the spread of any virus (like the flu, or the Wuhan Coronavirus) is simple. Ohioans should:

• Wash their hands with soap and water
• Don't touch your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Don't go to work, or out, if you are sick
• Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw that tissue in the trash