Fifteen members of the Duke community have tested as presumptive positives for COVID-19. All 15 of the individuals diagnosed in Durham participated in the same program overseas and were directed by Duke University to self-quarantine at their homes off-campus upon returning to Durham. They will isolate until they receive medical clearance. Duke University consulted with DCoDPH for further guidance.
Four other individuals who traveled with this group have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in another country and are remaining in that country until they have recovered. DCoDPH and Duke Health will work to test other individuals who traveled with this group.
DCoDPH and Duke Health are working to complete a contact investigation to determine if these individuals had close contact with others within Durham County while symptomatic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines close contact as being within approximately 6 feet of a person with a COVID-19 infection for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Neither Duke nor DCoDPH authorities will identify any individual patient nor provide any information that could compromise the privacy of these individuals.
Both the Durham County Department of Public Health and Duke University want to assure the Durham community that every step is being taken to provide guidance to any individuals in Durham county who may have been exposed to COVID-19. Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, North Carolinians should take the same measures that health care providers recommend to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses, including limiting exposure to groups, washing your hands, and avoiding touching your face. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services provides ongoing guidance in order to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the safety of North Carolinians.
For accurate, up-to-date information about COVID-19, visit coronavirus.duke.edu, dcopublichealth.org, ncdhhs.gov, & cdc.gov.
Contact:
Erin Kramer, Executive Director of Media and Public Affairs, Duke University
erin.kramer@duke.edu
Alecia Smith, Communications and Public Relations Manager, Durham County Department of Public Health
durhamepiteam@gmail.com