4/11/2020 - Positive COVID-19 Test

To: The Caltech Community
From: Thomas F. Rosenbaum, President; David A. Tirrell, Provost

Caltech Student Wellness Services was notified today, April 11, that a family member of a graduate student who is living in Caltech-owned housing has tested positive for COVID-19. We believe that the risk to the Caltech community is low based on the information that has been provided.

All members of the household have been in self-isolation in residence under the guidance of Pasadena Public Health (PPHD) since the individual was first notified of the testing results. No other members of the household are reporting illness at this time. Neither the graduate student nor other members of the household have been on Caltech's campus since March 17.

Immediately after learning this news, Caltech health professionals connected with the graduate student to offer support and are working with PPHD to assess any broader implications. The infectious disease task group continues to work across campus to make the necessary arrangements and plans to ensure the safety and well-being of the Caltech community.

As the novel coronavirus spreads throughout Los Angeles County, and more individuals fall ill with COVID-19, Caltech is in position to take additional precautions to slow the spread of the disease, protect the health and well-being of campus community members, and reduce the burden of our community on the local healthcare system. In support of this effort, we ask all Caltech community members to continue to abide by the Safe at Home order, which the county has extended through May 15. The order directs all individuals to limit all non-essential public activities, practice social distancing (maintaining six feet/ two meters of distance between individuals), and continue to practice preventative hygiene measures. 

If a student or another member of their household or family who is living on or near campus becomes ill with respiratory symptoms or has a positive test for COVID-19, please contact Student Wellness Services by phone (626-395-6393, Monday-Friday 8am-5pm; after hours, contact Campus Security at 626-395-4701), so that a medical provider can evaluate your situation and provide you with further instructions, as well as assess broader implications for the community.

Our collective efforts are essential to the Institute's response and health professionals' ability to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. We thank you for your cooperation during these fraught times.