UGA Athletics staff member with confirmed case of coronavirus, another in quarantine.

A UGA Athletics staff member has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, while another who had contact with the individual is now in self-quarantine.

Below is an email sent out to all faculty and students by the University of Georgia:

Out of an abundance of caution, the University of Georgia is making the campus community aware of the following situation related to COVID-19:

• A staff member who works in Athletics was confirmed this morning to have tested positive for COVID-19. The individual was last on campus on March 6, 2020. He is being treated in a local hospital.
• Another member of the Athletics Department who had contact with the individual is under self-quarantine at home with no symptoms at this time.

Health officials are taking precautionary measures to quickly identify cases of COVID-19 and take appropriate public health action to reduce its spread and protect the general public in identifying potential contacts.

For members of the UGA community, the best prevention measures for any respiratory virus, including COVID-19 are:

• Adhere to social distancing practices and CDC guidance regarding groups and group activity.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

While we understand the concerns and fear around COVID-19, it is extremely important to stay calm and maintain a close eye on your health and any symptoms that may arise. The symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath. Most cases of COVID-19 are mild with symptoms similar to a cold.

In addition, if you have recently traveled to areas where there are ongoing outbreaks of COVID-19 and develop fever with cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel, or if you have had contact with someone who is suspected to have COVID-19 and develop those symptoms, stay home and call your health care provider or local health department right away. Be sure to call before going to a doctor's office, emergency room, or urgent care center and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.