| Preparedness

Dear Cardinals,

The University of the Incarnate Word was informed by the City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District that a visitor from Gaines County, TX visited San Antonio on February 15, 2025, and has now tested positive for measles. As of today, there are no reported cases of measles in Bexar County or at the University of the Incarnate Word. UIW is working closely with the City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, and we will continue to update you of any changes.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.

Individuals who are vaccinated for measles are at a low risk of becoming infected. Symptoms of measles include:

• High fever (up to 105° F)

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Red, watery eyes

• Tiny white spots that may appear inside the mouth 2-3 days after symptoms begin

• Rash (typically appears 3-5 days after initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading downward on the body)

If you have any of these symptoms, please stay home from work or school and immediately contact your healthcare provider or UIW Health Services at 210- 829-6017 or email healthsvcs@uiwtx.edu. If you believe you have been exposed to measles, please call before going to a healthcare clinic to reduce the risk to others.

The measles, mumps and rubella vaccines (MMR or MMRV) are highly effective: two doses are 97% effective against measles and one dose is 93% effective. These vaccines can be obtained at local pharmacies (CVS, HEB, Walgreens, etc.) and most health insurances will cover the cost of the vaccines. Adults that are uninsured may obtain the MMR vaccine from the City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District Immunization Clinic. If you are unsure of your measles vaccination status or are concerned that your immunity to measles has waned, please consult with your healthcare provider for your next steps.

For more information about measles, visit the Texas Health and Human Services page.

Should you have any questions about your health or wellbeing please do not hesitate to reach out to UIW Health Services.

Sincerely,

UIW Health Services

210-829-6017

healthsvcs@uiwtx.edu