The University of Texas-Pan American administration continues to monitor developments of the current Swine Flu Influenza outbreak. The Crisis Management Team is coordinating efforts with the State of Texas and the Hidalgo Health Department on a daily basis. 

We will provide updates to the UTPA community as appropriate and take the appropriate actions.  Currently, classes, final examinations and events on campus HAVE NOT BEEN cancelled. 

In accordance with the Center for Disease Control advisories, all nonessential UTPA travel to Mexico is suspended until further notice. Those traveling on essential business shall adhere to the CDC recommendations for travel to areas where there are reported cases of swine flu. These recommendations are described at the following website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentSwineFluMexico.aspx

All personnel who are traveling to Mexico on ESSENTIAL travel should coordinate this effort through their respective Vice President, the Office of the President and the UTPA Department of Environmental Health and Safety at (956) 381-3690.

I want to stress, once again, the importance of being diligent in our efforts to ensure that we take the appropriate measures to protect both the UTPA and the Rio Grande Valley community from any unnecessary exposures. Any student or employee that is experiencing any flu-like symptoms should refrain from coming to school, get medical attention immediately and not return to campus for a minimum of 7 days. Students can get medical attention at Student Health Services. This is especially important for those who commute back and forth from Mexico. Please make sure that if you need to miss class or work because of illness, you must notify your professor or supervisor to make arrangements for finals or work-related matters.

It is important for all staff, faculty and students to keep informed by visiting the following websites:

• http://portal.utpa.edu/utpa_main/dba_home/safety_home/safety_progs/progs_emergency/progs_pandemic
• http://www.utpa.edu/ (UTPA home site);
• http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ (CDC);
• http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/swineflu/default.shtm  (Texas DSHS)

You can also call the following local and State Public Information.  Hidalgo County (956) 383-6221; Texas DSHS 1-888-777-5320.