Dear UHD Community:

It's the beginning of the Spring Semester and we hope you are well.

As you know, the elevated COVID-19 levels throughout the state and Greater Houston area has prompted the University to move classes online through at least Feb. 1.The safety of our campus community is a top priority and the latest pandemic spike should serve as a reminder to us all to take necessary precautions to stay safe.Simple measures to slow the spread include:

• Wearing face coverings
• Practicing social distancing
• Frequent hand washing
• Avoiding crowded areas

If you feel like you have COVID symptoms, or if you have been exposed to the virus, you should undergo testing. Harris County Public Health offers testing at several sites across the area. Additional independent testing sites are also located throughout Greater Houston.

It is crucial that if you have had contact with someone who has COVID-19, that you submit an Exposure Form and quarantine for 14 days. Do not come to campus during your quarantine. Submit a request to Return to Campus Form when your quarantine has ended and employees should also email benefits@uhd.edu.

In the event you are returning from any international travel, you are required to self-quarantine for 10 days, or get tested 3-5 days after travel and stay home for 7 days upon return to the United States. All International Travel must be documented using the UHD Travel Registration Form.

There is some good news on the horizon. The COVID-19 vaccine is now available in Houston with priority populations among the first to receive inoculations. Health experts are optimistic that the vaccine will break the pandemic cycle, but it is too early to determine its impact in our community.

While testing and vaccinations are tremendously valuable tools for combatting COVID-19, let's not overlook the importance of following the basic protection protocols. It's crucial to conquering the pandemic. By working together, we can do it!

Department of Emergency Management
University of Houston-Downtown