We have been notified of the first case of COVID-19 diagnosed in our community. The community member affected is receiving medical care and is doing well.

The affected community member initially reported their symptoms to UMBC on March 15, and (as we shared earlier by email) the UMBC Incident Management Team followed our established process to identify and notify members of our community who had been in contact with the individual, in conjunction with guidance from the local health department. The individuals who were exposed were advised to self-quarantine and closely monitor themselves for symptoms. We continue to provide information and support to the individuals advised to self-quarantine.

While we believe it is important for the community to know about our first COVID-19 case, going forward University-wide notification of every COVID-19 positive result will not be practical. Rather, our incident management team will focus its resources on working with COVID-19 positive individuals to promote self-quarantine and notification of close contacts. 

Since late February, our campus has taken a series of preventive steps to minimize coronavirus transmission, including our current operating mode of distance learning and telework. At the same time, we know that this is a very worrying time, particularly for our community members who are at higher risk of complications from COVID-19. We are here to support you.

Please remember this important health and safety guidance:

Please also review UMBC’s COVID-19 website at covid19.umbc.edu for prevention steps, leave policies, and other resources.