Midlands Technical College (MTC) officials are actively monitoring the developments surrounding the coronavirus (2019-nCoV). At this time, according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environment Control (DHEC), no cases have been identified in South Carolina.
 
Today, MTC began investigating a claim that an individual had possibly been exposed to a virus. That investigation shows the claims are unfounded. The individual has not had contact with anyone outside of the United States or with anyone who is known to have been in contact with the virus.
 
MTC is a public space and therefore can be prone to germs. Health officials say the best precautionary measures against the flu and other viruses is to practice proper hand washing procedures. Additionally, the college already has protocols in place for sanitizing classrooms, bathrooms, and all public spaces.
 
MTC would like to remind all students and employees of the everyday preventive actions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and DHEC. The CDC and DHEC say to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • 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.

MTC is in contact with DHEC, which is the public health agency taking the lead in South Carolina. As part of DHEC's outreach efforts, it has compiled several helpful resource materials. We encourage you to visit the DHEC website for details on how it is spread, symptoms, and prevention measures .
 
As DHEC learns more, it will continue to update its website at scdhec.gov/2019CoronaVirus. Additionally, Midlands Technical College will stay in close contact with DHEC, and MTC will communicate future developments as needed via email and on our website at www.midlandstech.edu/news .