Rice University asks group of employees, students to self-quarantine after possible coronavirus exposure

HOUSTON, Texas - Out of an abundance of caution, Houston-area Rice University has asked a small group of their employees and students to self-quarantine after they may have been exposed to the coronavirus while traveling overseas.

According to the University, every precautionary step is being taken to prevent coronavirus spread. The school is also working closely under the guidance of Harris County Public Health.

At this time the school does not plan on canceling any classes or suspending any upcoming events. In the meantime, the school has asked students and staff to follow these health guidelines in order to remain healthy:

Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food, after going to the bathroom and after you have been around someone who is sick. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you are unable to wash with soap and water.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, and utensils.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then throw it away.
Stay home and do not go to class if you are sick. If you live in one of the undergraduate colleges, contact the senior operations manager for your servery to make arrangements for your meals to be delivered so that you do not spread germs in public dining areas.

According to the University, those who are in self-quarantine traveled to places that were not currently on the CDC's restricted travel list. As a further precaution, the University is requiring everyone in the Rice community to register their travel plans if they plan on traveling outside of the University.

The University has also shared a joint statement from the Harris County Public Health and Houston Health Department that mention there are currently no confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus in Harris County at this time.

Students have also been asked to contact Student Health Services if they feel sick.