3 College Students Screened For Novel Coronavirus In Seattle

SEATTLE, WA — Three students at the University of Washington were tested for 2019 novel coronavirus after returning from Wuhan, China and developing potential symptoms, the college announced Monday. One student, who lives off-campus, has already tested negative. UW said the other two students are awaiting test results and being monitored by King County Public Health in isolated housing.

According to a college spokesman, school staff is working with public health officials to minimize any potential risk to the campus, out of an abundance of caution.

"Testing is a precautionary measure, and PHSKC anticipates most persons tested will not have the infection," a school statement said. "None of the UW students were hospitalized, and all are doing very well."

Students are asked to take similar precautions to protect themselves as they would with a cold or the flu.

Since a Snohomish County man was identified as the first known U.S. case of the new virus this month, at least four other Americans have been diagnosed. Infections in China, where the virus originated, are nearing 3,000 people, while the death toll has surpassed 80. CNN reports illnesses have been confirmed in 13 other countries outside China, including the U.S.

According to an update from the state Department of Health, eight people in Washington are being tested for potential exposure to the virus. The number of people identified as having "close contacts" with the Snohomish County man has grown to 63. He remains in isolation at Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett. No additional infections have been confirmed in Washington.

Symptoms of the virus can include a fever, cough and shortness of breath. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms can appear in as little as two days or up to two weeks after exposure. The CDC continues to update its risk assessment as researchers learn more about how the virus spreads, and how easily infections can occur.

The CDC recommends travelers avoid all non-essential trips to China's Hubei Province, where several cities remain on lockdown.

Learn the latest about the U.S. response to 2019 novel coronavirus on the CDC website.