A member of the Virginia Tech Blacksburg community has tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).  The case involves a student who lives off campus in Blacksburg. The student, who is believed to have contracted the virus during recent international travel, is in isolation and receiving care following protocols from the Virginia Department of Health.

It is important that you continue to practice healthy habits:

  • Practice good social distancing skills;  keep at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others;  limit group activities to 10 or less;  limit travel to only that which is essential.
  • Stay home when you feel sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and immediately dispose of used tissues.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning product.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. 
  • Call ahead before you seek medical care at Schiffert Health Center (540-231-6444), Lewis Gale Hospital Montgomery-Emergency Department (540-951-1111), or your health care provider office if you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, including fever. Tell the receptionist or your provider about your recent travel and symptoms.

For more information, call the New River Health District’s COVID-19 public health call center at 540-267-8240. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. After hours, leave a message. For the most accurate and up-to-date information online, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/new-river, www.nrvroadtowellness.com, www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

This information is being released in accordance with the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, commonly known as the Clery Act,  The Clery Act requires all colleges and universities  that participate in federal financial aid programs to keep and disclose information about crime on and near their respective campuses, including timely warnings of crimes or significant emergencies that may represent a serious or ongoing threat to the safety of students or employees.

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