2nd Member Of Purchase College Community Positive For Coronavirus

HARRISON, NY — Officials at Purchase College in Harrison, which is part of the State University of New York, confirmed Friday that a second member of the community has tested positive for the new coronavirus.

The first person, confirmed Thursday, lived on campus in an apartment style residence. All of their close contacts have been informed and advised, college officials said.

The second is a non-residential, part time, non-degree student who has not been on campus since March 2. Since this is past the incubation period, the Board of Health says it is not necessary to reach out to known contacts, college officials said.

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Gov. Andrew Cuomo shut down SUNY study-abroad programs around the globe March 3 and ordered 300 students home. As the outbreak worsened, on March 11 SUNY and CUNY schools were ordered closed by March 19, turning to online programs for the rest of the semester.

"Many people asked if it was safe for parents to come on campus and help their students move. Please know that all affected areas have been disinfected," said Patricia Bice, Ed.D., Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. "We ask all students who are experiencing flu like symptoms (fever, cough, and shortness of breath) to reach out to Health Services right away to report their symptoms and seek advice. Faculty and staff should follow the guidelines sent by Human Resources.

"In the meantime, we will continue our protocols and ask the community to do the same including disinfecting frequently trafficked areas and engaging in recommended hygiene and social distancing practices."

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