Public Health Information

Health Advisory: Novel Coronavirus and Recent Travel to Wuhan, Hubei Province, China (2/12/2020)

The outbreak of a respiratory illness caused by a new Coronavirus (COVID-19) in China is being closely monitored by the CDC and World Health Organization. Cases of the illness have been reported in several other countries, including at least thirteen confirmed cases in the U.S. No cases of COVID-19 infection have been reported in Texas.  Risk to the U.S. population is considered low at this time. 

Any person that develops fever and signs of a respiratory illness (cough or shortness of breath) and has traveled to China during the previous 14 days should seek medical care. Early symptoms could include chills, body aches, runny nose, sore throat or headache. 

Healthcare providers should be contacted prior to the visit to alert them to the respiratory symptoms and recent travel to China. Precautions should be taken to reduce the possible transmission of infection by covering coughs or sneezes, wearing a surgical mask, limiting contact with others and washing hands frequently. 

The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel ban to China. Consequently, all university-sponsored travel for employees and students is banned as well.

The university is monitoring the situation and will follow any guidance provided by the CDC or state/local health department as the situation evolves. For more details about the Novel Coronavirus outbreak, check the CDC website 2019 Novel Coronavirus. Students can schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center by calling 512.245.2161 or walking in during office hours.

Health Advisory: Influenza (Flu) (2/3/2020)

Flu activity is widespread across the United States, including Texas. The Student Health Center has seen lab-confirmed flu cases, including both type A & B flu. All members of the campus community are encouraged to follow these guidelines to prevent the spread of flu on our campus:

1. Stay home while sick (single most important measure to prevent the spread of flu).
2. Isolate for 3 days from onset of flu symptoms or until fever-free for 24 hours (whichever is longer).
3. Cover coughs and dispose of tissue immediately after use (avoid reusing and contaminating hands).
4. Wash hands frequently, especially before touching mouth, nose or eyes.
5. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
6. Flu vaccination (it's not too late, especially for persons at high risk).

Most cases of flu can be managed with over-the-counter medications and bedrest. However, persons who are very ill or have medical conditions that increase their risk for complications from the flu (chronic heart and lung disease, diabetes, asthma, compromised immune system, pregnant women, young children, persons 65+) should seek medical care. Early use of anti-viral medication such as Tamiflu or Relenza can prevent complications and shorten duration of illness.

For more information about the flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control website at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/index.html. To schedule a flu shot at the Student Health Center, students can call 512.245.2161 or walk-in during office hours.