Student at Fanshawe College residence presumed to have COVID-19

Fanshawe College is tightening their safety measures after learning a student living in residence is suspected of havingCOVID-19.

Officials with the college say the student has been testedfor the virus, but lab results are still pending.

"The case is not confirmed. However, based on guidance from the Middlesex-London Health Unit], we are treating the case as if it was confirmed," said Brenda Henry, the senior manager of environment, health, safety and emergency services at the college, in an email.

The student was living in one of the school's residences, but whether he or she had roommates, or other details about the student's situation, are not being disclosed by the school. Most residences at Fanshawe are apartment-style, with each student having his or her own room and sharing a kitchen and bathroom with others.

Reports say the student has been hospitalized.

"Any person who was in direct contact with our student has been contacted by the Middlesex-London Health Unit," Henry said. Those who had contact with the student have been asked to self-isolate.

Fanshawe College closed its doors to students on March 17 and moved most of the college's courses online. Earlier this month, the college also recommended students living in residencewho were able to move out todo so.

The school says it's taking several actions to ensure the safety of their students and staff.

"Students remaining in residence will be relocated so that only one student occupies each unit on campus. This will help further protect the health of both our staff and students," Henry said.

Other measures taken include reducing the occupancy levels for elevators on campus to one person at a time, Henry said.

A student at a Western University residence was also diagnosed with COVID-19 earlier this month.