Skip to Main content
Home / Public Health Updates

Public Health Updates

Keeping the Ram Family safe and informed.

As we bid goodbye to the warm summer months and head into winter, our attention turns to indoor activities - family gatherings, holiday events, and keeping out of the cold by spending more time inside.

Here, we will focus on three respiratory viral infections that are highly infectious - the flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Because all three have very similar signs and symptoms, the best way to tell the difference and get a diagnosis is by getting tested. The earlier an illness is diagnosed, the sooner a course of treatment can be identified. Getting treated early can reduce the risk of getting very sick.

Flu

The flu is caused by the influenza virus and spreads more easily during the winter months. 

COVID-19

The Daily Wellness Screening is no longer required. Please handle COVID-19 as you would any other illness. If you are feeling sick, please stay home and seek the advice of a medical professional.

Please continue to practice good hygiene while on campus. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. It’s especially important to wash your hands before eating, preparing food or touching your face.

We encourage the Ram Family to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and keep the Ram Fam healthy.

Safety Standards and Resources

RSV

RSV is caused by the respiratory syncytial virus, a highly contagious virus that can infect children and adults. In infants and the elderly, the symptoms can be more severe, while in adults and older children, RSV is typically milder. 

Symptoms

 In adults and older children, typical RSV symptoms include:

  • Low-grade fever
  • Congested or runny nose
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Occasional wheezing

In younger children and the elderly or immunocompromised, RSV can cause a lower respiratory tract illness such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, and in more severe cases can result in respiratory failure. Severe symptoms may include:

  • Worsening croupy cough
  • Unusually rapid breathing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Bluish color of the lips or fingernails due to low oxygen in the blood

Preventative Actions to Help Stop the Spread of Germs

  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, sleeve, or elbow.
  • Wash your hands often and correctly (with soap and water for 20 seconds).
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way and can infect respiratory pathways.
  • Avoid sharing cups, glasses and utensils with other people.
  • Do not come in close contact with other people.
  • Clean contaminated surfaces such as doorknobs and countertops with disinfectants.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Avoid exposure to sick persons, especially those that have cold-like symptoms. Avoid crowds if you are a high-risk individual.

Information source: San Angelo Department of Health Services