This afternoon (Monday 10 February), University of Sussex students received an email from Internal Communications stating that a student on campus has been taken to hospital to be tested for Coronavirus.
Becca Bashford | News Editor
UPDATE: This article originally contained a video but until the information within the video can be corroborated it has been temporarily removed.
This afternoon (Monday 10 February), University of Sussex students received an email from Internal Communications stating that a student on campus has been taken to hospital to be tested for Coronavirus.
Videos are currently circulating online showing an ambulance and a medic in a hazmat suit near the Lewes Court accommodation. It has not been confirmed if the person who is being tested resides there or if the video is directly related to the case.
[The video has been removed from this article until confirmation is provided as to its authenticity]
To avoid speculation, the University sent the following email:
“A student on our campus has been admitted to hospital, to be tested for Coronavirus. The student involved had returned recently from overseas and unfortunately started to feel unwell. They took the wise decision to inform health professionals at an early opportunity and we will soon know the results of any tests.”
“We know that some students and staff will be aware that an ambulance arrived on campus this afternoon and so we wanted to make sure you are aware of the situation, to avoid speculation. The University if following all the practical steps as outlined by Public Health England and is in touch with fellow students of the young person involved.”
“We are very conscious that this is a difficult time for our student and we are concerned at making sure they are supported. We also please ask that we all continue to support each other during this time, particularly our students from overseas who are feeling a long way from home at the moment and at times vulnerable.”
“We know this is worrying for our community, especially as there is a focus on Brighton in the media. Please know that our teams are following all advice and have been planning over the past week for all eventualities.”
“We will keep you updated with information as and when it becomes available. As always, if you can’t find the information you require here please email HealthSafety@sussex.ac.uk, if you have a question/concern on this issue.”
It was recently reported that a local Brighton resident tested positive for the virus. The man contracted it in Singapore, and has been quarantined in London. Currently, there are eight individuals in England that have tested positive.
Earlier today, County Oak Medical Centre in Brighton temporarily closed after a staff member also tested positive.
It should be stressed that the student is currently only being tested for the virus.
The Badger has approached Internal Communications for clarification regarding where the student was removed from.
This story is developing. Stay tuned for updates.
