Public Health

Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection spread mainly through close, rather than casual, contact. It can cause a rash that looks like bumps, blisters, or ulcers. Some people have flu-like illnesses before the rash develops. If you believe you have been exposed, you should avoid close contact with others and watch closely for any symptoms.  If symptoms or a rash develop, get tested and self-isolate pending test results to avoid spreading the infection to others. Additional details about signs, symptoms, and risk factors are available at the CDC. 

Take the following steps to prevent monkeypox: 

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash. 
• Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
• Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.
• Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox. 
• Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox. 
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 

If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of monkeypox, contact Student Emergency Services at deanofstudents@utpb.edu or (432) 552-4601. You can also report experiencing signs or symptoms of monkeypox online using the Injury/Illness (including hospitalization) option on the Report a Student Concern form 

COVID-19 

COVID-19 is still circulating in our community, and the University continues to offer support and assistance for students. Here are the steps:  

1. Report symptoms, exposures, and positive tests via reportcovid.utpb.edu.  
2. If you have received a positive COVID test OR have symptoms, you should not come to campus. Once you have reported, the COVID case manager will reach out to determine your next steps. 
3. If you are placed in quarantine or self-isolation by Case Management, you may not return to campus until you receive written clearance.   
4. If you have symptoms, a negative COVID test does not mean you don't have COVID or are not contagious. It is possible to test too early in the disease process. Please stay home if you have symptoms. 
5. You can order up to three rounds of free at-home COVID-19 tests online at COVIDTests.gov or call 1-800-232-0233. 
6. If you would like to take a test at UTPB, this is BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. No Walk-Ins will be allowed due to safety precautions. Please call Environmental Health and Safety at 432-552-2493 to schedule a time slot for testing.