MECC reports virus case

A Mountain Empire Community College employee has tested positive for COVID-19, the college announced Aug. 29.

“The employee is self-isolated, according to CDC and local public health guidelines,” MECC announced in a press release. “Contact tracing is being coordinated through the local health department in conjunction with the college. Those persons who may have come into close contact with the positive case are notified directly by the Health Department and given further instructions to prevent the spread.”

MECC will continue with previously scheduled classes and classes will continue as they have this semester. There is no change to the staff schedules and access to the campus as a part of this notification.

According to federal guidelines, the college sent an emergency notification to all students and employees, the release states. “Additional information regarding COVID-19 prevention, symptoms, testing and academic planning can be found at the college’s COVID- 19 Prevention and Response webpage at https://www.mecc.edu/coronavirus/.”

With local COVID-19 cases on the rise, the college reminded students and staff to:

• Practice social distancing by putting at least six feet between yourself and others, including covering your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering, especially in public places where six feet of separation is not feasible.

• Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Clean and then disinfect frequently used surfaces. Cover coughs/sneezes with a tissue or inside of your elbow. Monitor your health for symptoms and stay home if you’re sick.