COVID-19 Vaccine Information
Distribution Process
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) defines priority groups for the vaccine. In the weeks leading up to the winter break, the university began the exciting process of vaccinating our health care workers who meet the state criteria for Phase 1A.
DSHS recently defined Phase 1B priorities to include people over the age of 65 and individuals age 16-64 with certain underlying conditions that put them at greater risk for severe illness from COVID-19. The state makes decisions regarding allocation on a weekly basis, and distributes vaccine accordingly. We will continue to update our campus regularly on the availability and timing of vaccines for our students, faculty and staff following DSHS guidance and depending on vaccine availability. Visit the Vaccine Distribution page to learn more.
Vaccine Education
It takes all of us to stop the spread of COVID-19. We encourage everyone to get vaccinated when they are eligible. When enough people get vaccinated, it makes the spread of COVID-19 from person to person unlikely and the whole community becomes protected. This is called herd immunity and we need as many people as possible to get vaccinated in order to achieve this.
The vaccine protects against but does not completely prevent COVID-19. It is one more tool in our toolkit in our fight against COVID-19.
Continue to follow public health and university COVID-19 safety guidelines. Continue to wear face masks, social distance, wash hands and avoid gatherings.