A staff member at Stellenbosch University has become the first employee at the institution to test positive for coronavirus. A message sent by Vice Chancellor Wim de Villiers confirmed that the worker – who is based at the Tygerberg Campus – has now gone into self-isolation.

Universities across the country are shutting-up-shop until April, due to the threat posed by COVID-19. Strict social distancing guidelines have been issued, and South Africa faces a mild lockdown as schools close and recreational establishments limit their operating hours.

Stellenbosch University gets its first staff coronavirus case – what we know so far:

In a statement released by Stellenbosch University, de Villiers also explains that those who have been in close contact with the employee have already been identified, and the “tracing” phase will now begin:

“Stellenbosch University has its first confirmation of a staff member who has tested positive for coronavirus. A member of staff at the Tygerberg Campus who had recently travelled abroad is in self-isolation and is being treated under the supervision of the Provincial and National Departments of Health.” “We wish our colleague all the best for the self-isolation period and a full recovery. Close contacts of the person have been identified and the relevant health authorities are in the process of contacting them. Exposure of all other colleagues and students at Tygerberg is currently deemed to be extremely low risk.” Wim de Villiers on SU’s coronavirus case

Students await further instructions

According to the Vice Chancellor, Stellenbosch’s campus community will be informed of any decisions directly after a Business Community meeting. The communiqué will also include information on where learning materials will be available from 30 March, and should provide options for access to computers and the internet.