NH DHHS Announces Potential Exposures Connected To Positive Cases Of COVID-19 At Theta Chi Fraternity In Durham

Concord, NH – The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is investigating a potential outbreak of COVID-19 among individuals associated with Theta Chi Fraternity, located at 5 Strafford Avenue, Durham, NH 03824. To date, 11 persons with COVID- 19 have been identified who have been at the fraternity.

Any individuals who visited Theta Chi Fraternity since the end of August may have been exposed to COVID-19 and should self-observe for illness and seek testing.

Students who may have been exposed can access testing through the University of New Hampshire. Persons not associated with the university can access testing through multiple testing options available throughout the State.

For persons without health insurance or a primary care provider, testing is available and can be scheduled by calling (603) 271-5980 or through completing the online form at business.nh.gov/DOS_COVID19Testing.

COVID-19 can present with a wide range of symptoms including fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of taste or smell. Any person who develops new symptoms should stay home, limit their contact with others, immediately contact their healthcare provider and get tested for COVID-19.

COVID-19 continues to circulate in our communities. People can protect themselves and help prevent further infections in our communities by:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcoholbased hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoiding close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing.
• Wearing a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas.
• Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Staying home if you have a fever or are not feeling well.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.