A Coast Guard Academy cadet tested positive for COVID-19 after returning from a Spring break trip to Europe and six other cadets who were with him are under self-quarantine.
The Coast Guard Academy said the cadet, a 20-year-old Florida man, traveled to Europe for spring break along with six other cadets. He also traveled with a civilian friend, who has also tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
The group had been visiting Spain when they were ordered to return to the U.S. after the president suspended travel from Europe, a statement from the academy says.
The cadet’s symptoms started when he got home to Florida, so he sought treatment and was screened.
He remains is in self quarantine and the other six cadets are in self isolation at their homes while arrangements are made for them to be tested.
The cadets were told to stay away from the academy for an additional two weeks after spring break.
"The Coast Guard Academy initiated precautionary measures while cadets were away for spring break in an attempt to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on board CGA. This diagnosis demonstrates the necessity of these measures," Rear Admiral William Kelly said in a statement. "We will continue to monitor and evaluate the evolving situation, and take appropriate actions to protect the health and safety of the cadets, faculty, staff, and our local community, while striving to achieve our mission of preparing officers for the U.S. Coast Guard.”
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Coronavirus Symptoms
The key symptoms of the coronavirus, according to the CDC are:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Symptoms can appear in infected persons two to 14 days after exposure.
Coronavirus Prevention Steps
Steps for prevention from the CDC include:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- 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 using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
- You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
- Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, such as to the grocery store
- Coverings should not be placed on children under 2, anyone who has trouble breathing or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
- The face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected
- Do NOT use a facemask meant for a health care worker
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
Steps to Self-Monitor for Coronavirus
Steps to self-monitor from the CDC include:
- Take your temperature with a thermometer two times a day and monitor for fever. Also watch for cough or trouble breathing.
- Do not take public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares during the time you are practicing social distancing.
- Avoid crowded places (such as shopping centers and movie theaters) and limit your activities in public.
- Keep your distance from others (about 6 feet or 2 meters).
If you do get sick with a fever, cough or have trouble breathing, call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room and communicate with your doctor about your recent travel.
- If you develop symptoms, stay home and avoid contact with others. Do not go to work or school for this 14-day period. Discuss your work situation with your employer before returning to work.
The CDC has a special website set up with details about the coronavirus, including how it spreads and treatment.
Anyone with questions relating to coronavirus can call 2-1-1 or text "CTCOVID" to 898211. The 2-1-1 hotline is available 24 hours a day.
You can also visit the state's coronavirus information website here. Residents are encouraged to check the website for answers to questions before calling the hotline.
