University of North Texas

Oct. 2, 2014

Two days ago the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the first case of Ebola in the United States in a patient being treated in Dallas. The man has been identified in the media and by Liberian officials as Thomas Eric Duncan. 

The Dallas County health department is observing up to 18 adults and children who may have been in contact with the patient. He has no known connection to any component of the University of North Texas System and none of these 18 adults or children have been directly linked to the university.

The university, however, is monitoring the situation closely, as we have since the outbreak in West Africa began. And while the recent Ebola outbreak in West Africa has been serious, the risk of acquiring the disease is considered very low according to the CDC.

Ebola is not spread through airborne contact and is only communicable during the period that the infected person shows symptoms of the disease, according to the CDC.

Many of the initial symptoms are similar to those of the flu, which becomes more prevalent in fall and winter. Symptoms of Ebola include a fever greater than 101.5 degreesFahrenheit (38.6 degreesCelcius), severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain or unexplained bleeding or bruising. Those who are exhibiting these symptoms should seek medical attention and talk with medical providers about any questions or concerns.

The UNT Student Health and Wellness Center is open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday from 9:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and is located in Chestnut Hall at the corner of Chestnut Street and Avenue D. The Health and Wellness Center may be reached by calling 940-565-2333.

Effective immediately:

Because of the health crisis in West Africa, UNT has suspended ALL official travel by university faculty, staff and students to Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone. In addition, the University strongly discourages travel to the surrounding West African region.

Faculty members wishing to travel to the surrounding region must obtain written authorization from the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs; and staff employees must obtain written authorization from the Vice President for Finance and Administration prior to travel.

No monetary reimbursement will be made for any expenses incurred in contravention of this advisory.

The University will monitor information about the Ebola virus and advise the University community when this ban is lifted.

Resources:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• • Ebola
  • Advice for Colleges, Universities, and Students about Ebola in West Africa:
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Ebola
• U.S. State Department

Related Links:

• Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
• Texas Department of Health
• UNT Health and Wellness Center
• Denton County Health Services