Confirmed COVID-19 Case in Texas State University Community

Today, the university learned that a faculty member in our Texas State University community tested positive for COVID-19.  The faculty member became ill during spring break on 3/17/20 while away from the San Marcos university campus. Subsequently, the individual was seen by a primary care provider who later confirmed a positive COVID-19 test result.  The faculty member, who lives in Austin, is recovering well and a full recovery is expected.  Out of respect for the individual’s privacy, we are only sharing identifying information with public health officials.  

The faculty member was on campus on March 9th and 11th before the university’s spring break.  The faculty member was completely asymptomatic while on campus.  After consulting with the local public health authority, it has been determined that the risk of transmission to others on March 9th and 11th was very low.  Since the faculty member has not returned to campus since March 11th, and it is past the 14-day incubation period, the public health authority is not recommending any specific measures be taken by the university at this time.  

As COVID-19 continues to spread across our country, it is important that everyone follow local directives for social distancing or shelter-in-place, and adhere to CDC guidance on prevention measures such as staying away from those who are sick, washing hands frequently - especially before touching your face or eating, and staying home if ill.  These are difficult times and I hope all are healthy and safe. Let’s keep doing our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.