COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination Update

Emilio Carranco, M.D., M.S., Chief Medical Officer | March 23, 2021

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

As we return from spring break, I want to share some important information with you regarding our efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on our campuses.  Generally, COVID-19 case counts and positivity rates have been decreasing across Texas.  However, there are concerns about possible increases in case counts associated with COVID-19 variants, travel and social gathering over spring break.  It is important that we take steps to prevent a surge in cases in the coming weeks.

COVID-19 Testing

One of the most important steps we can take right now is to get tested for COVID-19.  With less than 15% of the Texas population being fully vaccinated, the risk of being exposed to COVID-19 remains significant—especially if you have traveled or gathered with others.  You may be infected without knowing it.  For information about free COVID-19 testing on our campuses, check TXST COVID-19 Testing.  If you have a positive test, please follow CDC guidance on isolation and report to Bobcat Trace as soon as possible.

Texas State Vaccinations

Vaccination for COVID-19 is the best way to bring this pandemic to an end.  Texas State University had its first vaccination event on the San Marcos Campus on March 12th.  Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines were administered to 574 persons.  Weekly vaccinations are planned for either the San Marcos or Round Rock Campuses if vaccine is available.  An e-mail will be sent to faculty, staff and students each week with a link to request a reservation for vaccination.  If you are a member of a Vaccine Eligible Group as defined by the Texas Department of State Health Services, you may request a vaccination.  Vaccine supply is limited and not everyone who requests a vaccination will be able to get one.  The Student Health Center will send a confirmation e-mail within 24 hours to those who get a vaccination reservation.  For the latest information on vaccinations at Texas State, check COVID-19 Vaccination Information.

Prevention Still Important

Wearing face coverings and social distancing have been difficult, but by working together, we have been able to prevent transmission in our classrooms, departments and residence halls.  If we want to expand activities on our campuses, we must continue these prevention measures and keep COVID-19 case counts and positivity rates low.  We need to get vaccinated when it is our turn.  We need to stay committed to keeping ourselves and those we care about safe.  SO, LET’S TEST AND VACCINATE TEXAS STATE!

Sincerely,

Emilio Carranco, M.D., M.S.
Chief Medical Officer
Director, Student Health Center