Health Alerts

What to Know for this Fall & Winter Virus Season - Protect Yourself and Others

The best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get a flu vaccine every year. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every season, ideally by the end of October, especially people at higher risk. The flu shot typically takes about 2 weeks to provide immunity.

Flu vaccines help to reduce the burden of flu illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths on the health care system each year. Flu vaccination also has been shown to reduce the severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick. The flu typically lasts for 5 to 7 days; however, some people may experience symptoms for up to 2 weeks.

Eligible students (those enrolled in at least one on-campus class or that have paid the medical services fee through the UTA Marketplace) can get a free flu shot in the health center beginning September 22 for the 2025-2026 flu season.

Take everyday prevention actions to stop the spread of germs.

- Stay up to date with immunizations.
- Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water. Cover your coughs and sneezes. Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Improve air quality by bringing in fresh outside air, purifying indoor air, or gathering outdoors. Cleaner air can reduce the risk of exposure to viruses.

When you have a respiratory virus:

- Use precautions to reduce the spread of illness, such as staying home and away from others.
- Seek health care for treatment.
- Free flu and COVID-19 testing is available in the health center as well as $10 testing for strep throat.

Whether you need an immunization, testing, treatment or have another health concern, Health Services is here to support your academic success by providing excellent health care and promoting wellness. Call 817-272-2771 for questions or to schedule an appointment.