Welcome back to campus for the 2022-2023 academic year. Everyone at UT Dallas has worked hard preparing for the beginning of a new semester.

As part of this effort, the University community health response team continues to monitor current public health conditions closely and to make decisions that best protect our campus community.

Since my message on August 9, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has decreased its COVID-19 threat level to medium for Dallas and Collin Counties, while Tarrant County risk level remains high. The Public Health Emergency declared by the CDC and Dallas County public health authorities associated with cases of monkeypox remains in effect. Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. According to the CDC, the general threat of monkeypox to the public is currently considered low.

What you can do

COVID-19

We encourage everyone to consider their personal level of risk and focus on prevention by getting vaccinated, masking, covering coughs and sneezes, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home when ill. If you do become ill, follow current CDC guidance for your specific situation and report your positive COVID-19 diagnosis via the UT Dallas self-report form (English or Spanish).

Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection spread mainly through close, personal contact. It can cause a rash that looks like bumps, blisters or ulcers. Some people have flu-like illness before the rash develops. If you have been exposed, you should avoid close contact with others and watch closely for any symptoms. If symptoms or a rash develops, contact your primary care provider (students may contact the Student Health Center by calling 972-883-2747), and self-isolate pending test results to avoid spreading the infection to others.

For additional information and resources related to COVID-19 and monkeypox, visit the Community Health website or email communityhealth@utdallas.edu

We remain vigilant in our efforts to operate UT Dallas in a manner that protects the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors. Thank you for your ongoing efforts to keep our community healthy and safe, and thank you for remaining Comets United.

Sincerely,

Dr. Rafael Martín
Vice President and Chief of Staff