News and Announcements
Coronavirus
UHD will provide updates as information is made available. Likewise, the University will continue to offer resources such as the Office of Emergency Management’s coronavirus site (containing useful facts and links) and the campus’ Student Health Services (open to UHD students Monday – Friday). Appointments can be made by calling 713-221-8137.
Measles
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines measles as a very contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 90% of the people around this individual could potentially become infected if they are not protected.
Measles starts with a fever. Soon after, it causes a cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash of tiny, red spots then breaks out. It starts at the head and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Five cases of measles have been confirmed and reported within Harris, Montgomery and Galveston counties since the beginning of 2019. There are no reported cases of measles at the University of Houston-Downtown.
Measles can be prevented. The MMR vaccine protects against three diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. The CDC recommends children get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Teenagers and adults should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination. Teenagers and adults who do not have evidence of immunity against measles should get 2 doses separated by at least 28 days.
If you suspect you have the measles, call your doctor but do not visit in person. The last thing healthcare providers want in a waiting room is a person shedding the measles virus. There can be enough virus floating in droplets in the air to infect others up to two hours after you leave. If you don’t have a primary care doctor, call an urgent clinic or telemedicine provider and stay home until somebody gives you instructions otherwise.
The MMR vaccine is available at the Houston Health Department. A discounted/sliding fee scale is available for most services. The Houston Health Department will not deny access to services due to an inability to pay.
Several other surrounding health care facilities and pharmacies are able to administer the vaccine as well.
Flu
The flu virus tends to spread from October to May, with most cases occurring in January and February. Vaccinations can be given any time during the flu season – even getting a vaccination later in the season (December through March) can still help protect you from the flu. Get the flu vaccine, not the flu!
Flu vaccines are available to the UHD students and employees for only $20. No appointments are necessary. Vaccines will be given on a walk-in basis during regular business hours.