A STUDENT at Bournemouth University (BU) has tested positive for coronavirus, the university has confirmed.

The student is currently self-isolating after tests showed they had the novel coronavirus COVID-19.

The university says the person had come into contact with the virus through another individual based in the UK but not at the university.

This comes as Public Health England confirmed there were now three cases in Dorset.

The first two had been announced by the health authority on Sunday.

A statement from BU said: "The student informed us of being tested after coming into contact with the virus through another individual based in the UK, not at the university.

"The student followed Public Health England (PHE) advice and self-isolated pending the results of the test. We are supporting the student to ensure they have everything they need to recover quickly from the illness."

"PHE has advised that the risk to our students, staff and visitors remains low. The university remains open and continues to operate normally. We will continue to work with partners to ensure our response is aligned to national advice and guidance.

"We are grateful that the student took proactive steps to limit contamination and we are working closely with PHE, doing all we can to follow advice and support containment efforts. We have been planning for instances of outbreak since January and are confident we are well prepared, and our first priority is to continue to support the student and anyone else who may feel concerned as a result of this news.

"We understand that staff and students may be concerned but remain confident that the university is a safe environment. We would ask you to refrain from speculation and unnecessary action at this time.

"We ask all staff and students to continue to follow Government and PHE advice, washing hands regularly, and use the 111 coronavirus service if you begin to develop symptoms."

Neighbouring educational establishment Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) has also released a statement on the situation.

Their statement said: "We have been informed that a member of the Bournemouth University (BU) community has tested positive for COVID-19.

"The individual is currently self-isolating, and in consultation with Public Health England (PHE), has taken all sensible precautionary steps to prevent any further spread.

"Arts University Bournemouth’s immediate concerns are with the individual affected. We ask that their privacy is respected, and that members of our community and the wider public avoid speculation both in public and across social media.

"AUB is open as usual with all activities continuing on campus as planned.

"AUB and BU continue to work together closely to ensure the safety of our community, staff and students. Preventative measures continue to be run across the university campus, including awareness messaging and increased anti-bacterial cleaning.

"AUB is operating in collaboration with PHE and local healthcare providers, and frequent updates are informing our Incident Response Team which has been monitoring the situation.

"If people have any concerns about their health in relation to coronavirus, we ask that they follow current PHE advice and contact NHS 111.

AUB issued the following good hygiene practice as a reminder:

  • Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze
  • Bin the tissue and wash your hands with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel
  • Wash your hands frequently throughout the day and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands