First Presumptive COVID-19 Case Identified in Oregon

On Friday, Feb. 28, the Oregon Health Authority reported the first presumptive case of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19 in the state. Pacific University is constantly monitoring the evolving public health situation and compiling information specific to students, employees, clinics and communities at pacificu.edu/coronavirus. Public health organizations such as the Oregon Health Authority and U.S. Centers for Disease Control remain the best source of general information about the situation.

The OHA continues to recommend people in Oregon take the same everyday precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and influenza: 

  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces that are often touched.
  • Take care of your health overall. Staying current on your vaccinations, including flu vaccine, eating well and exercising all help your body stay resilient.
  • Consult CDC’s travel website for any travel advisories and steps to protect yourself if you plan to travel outside of the US.

The OHA offers the following sources for more information:

Friday, Feb. 28, 2020