UPDATE: Swine Flu Information

The following is an update for UT System Administration employees concerning the spread of the swine influenza (H1N1 Flu) and also a reminder of how you can take precautionary measures to stay healthy. Students, faculty and staff should consult their respective UT institution for local campus information. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, as of Friday (May 14) there are 293 cases of confirmed swine flu in Texas. (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/). 

Based on the current situation and advisories from the CDC and International SOS, Chancellor Cigarroa has instructed UT System Administration and the institutions to suspend all non-essential travel to Mexico. 

Our campus and work environments can contribute to the spread of illness. There are many things we can do as a community to stay healthy. 

• Avoid close contact with others who are sick; keep your distance from others if you are ill. 
• Do not come to work if you are ill. 
• Wash your hands frequently and/or use a hand sanitizer, especially before eating. 
• Cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze. 
• Discard used tissues in an appropriate trash receptacle, and avoid placing them on any surface that others may touch.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. 
• Practice other good health habits; eat nutritious foods, get plenty of rest, exercise, manage your stress and drink plenty of fluids. 

To learn more about swine flu, you may visit the CDC Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/swineflu_you.htm. 

The State of Texas Department of State Health Services also has a dedicated Web site with information at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/swineflu/default.shtm

As you know, this situation changes rapidly. UT System officials will continue to monitor information regarding this influenza outbreak and will communicate any developments that may impact the UT System community.