24
February
2020
|
12:01 PM
America/Chicago

UHD Coronavirus Update - Feb. 24

The University of Houston-Downtown continues to monitor news and updates related to the global coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. As of Feb. 21, more than 30 cases in the U.S. have been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), including three in Texas. According to the CDC, the risk level to the general public remains low.

With spring break approaching, UHD community members are encouraged to monitor CDC’s health travel notices regarding international travel. Likewise, travelers should consult the agency’s tips regarding preventing sickness and injury while traveling. As a reminder, the University of Houston System is prohibiting travel to Wuhan, Hubei Province China (where the first coronavirus case was reported), as well as non-essential travel to China outside of Hubei Province. As of Feb. 2, the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 4 travel advisory, advising citizens not to travel to China.

Faculty, staff and students should remain informed on the facts surrounding this virus. In addition to the previously mentioned CDC website, Harris County recently launched a site focused on dispelling rumors and misinformation surrounding the coronavirus.

Handwashing remains the recommended preventative measure when avoiding illness from any virus (coronavirus, influenza and others). Additionally, it is encouraged to clean and disinfect surfaces regularly and to avoid people who might be sick. If you are feeling sick, avoid contact with others and do not come to class or work.

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 Student Health Services (open to UHD students Monday – Friday). Appointments can be made by calling 713-221-8137.

About the University of Houston-Downtown

The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is the second-largest university in Houston and has served the educational needs of the nation’s fourth-largest city since 1974. As one of four distinct public universities in the University of Houston System, UHD is a comprehensive, four-year university led by President Loren J. Blanchard. Annually, UHD educates approximately 14,000 students, boasts more than 66,000 alumni, and offers 45 bachelor’s degrees, 12 master’s degrees, and 19 online programs within four colleges: Marilyn Davies College of Business, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Public Service, and College of Sciences and Technology. UHD has one of the lowest tuition rates in Texas.

U.S. News and World Report ranked UHD among the nation’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Applied Administration and Best Online Master’s Programs in Criminal Justice, as well as a Top Performer in Social Mobility. The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse ranked UHD one of the best colleges in the U.S. for its 2024 rankings, with notable distinctions: No. 1 for diversity (tied) and No. 3 for student experience. The University is designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, a Minority-Serving Institution, and a Military Friendly School. For more information on the University of Houston-Downtown, visit uhd.edu.