Student Health and Wellness
Student Health and Wellness supports student learning at UT Tyler by creating opportunities, programs and policies empowering students to: reach their full potential, take responsibility for themselves and others, and contributing to the creation of a healthy, safe and socially just learning environment. Student Health and Wellness coordinates health-related programs that comply with federal and state mandates such as the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 and Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. Programming and information through this office covers areas such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse, stalking, harassment, sexual assault, partner violence, sexual responsibility, student health insurance information, and other health-related topics.
Student Health and Wellness offers guidance to students who are interested in impacting the campus climate through encouraging behavioral change or improvement in knowledge about student issues. Any currently enrolled student at The University of Texas at Tyler may also apply to become a Certified Peer Educator. For more information on programs offered call 903.566.7067 or visit www.uttyler.edu/wellness.
HIV and Hepatitis B Infection
The University of Texas at Tyler recognizes Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) as serious public health threats and is committed to encouraging an informed and educated response to issues and questions concerning these infections. In furtherance of its commitment UT Tyler has adopted a policy and procedural steps to protect both the rights and well-being of those students, employees, and patients who may be infected with HIV or HBV as well as to prevent the spread of infection. No individual with HIV or HBV infection will be discriminated against in employment, admission to academic programs, health benefits, or access to facilities. Students with HIV or HBV infection may attend all classes without restriction, as long as they are physically and mentally able to participate and perform assigned work and pose no health risks to others. All information regarding the medical status of UT Tyler faculty, staff, and students is confidential.
A complete copy of the HIV and Hepatitis B Infection policy can be found in the Handbook of Operating Procedures, Chapter 2, Sec. 2.9.1. This policy is applicable to all students of UT Tyler as they pursue their academic (and clinical) endeavors.
Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis is a serious, potentially deadly infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain. This disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year, including 100-125 on college campuses. Bacterial Meningitis is transmitted when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, or by sharing drinking containers, utensils, cigarettes, toothbrushes, etc.) or come in contact with respiratory or throat secretions. Symptoms includes high fever, rash or purple patches on skin, light sensitivity, confusion and sleepiness, lethargy, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, nausea, and seizures. The more symptoms, the higher the risk, so when these symptoms appear seek immediate medical attention. Prevention depends on the use of vaccines, rapid diagnosis and prompt treatment of close personal contacts.
In accordance with Texas Education Code 51.9192, Subchapter Z and amended by SB 62 (2013), all first-time UT Tyler students who are younger than 22 years of age or students (younger than 22 years of age) who previously attended UT Tyler but were not enrolled during the fall 2011 semester are required to provide proof of vaccination against bacterial meningitis. All documentation should be submitted to the Enrollment Services Center (ESC) in ADM 230. Exemptions for this requirement are as follows:
- The student is 22 years of age or older on the first day of the semester.
- The student is enrolled in online-only programs.
- The student submits an affidavit or a certificate signed by a physician who is duly registered and licensed to practice in the United States, stating, in the physician's opinion, the vaccination required would be injurious to the student's health and well-being.
- The student submits a signed Exemption from Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience Affidavit Form. This form can be requested from the Texas Department of State Health Services at: www.corerequest.dshs.texas.gov.
- New students who are also Texas high school students enrolled in a dual enrollment program where the dual enrollment classes are held at a Texas high school.
For more information, visit: www.uttyler.edu/meningitis or www.uttyler.edu/wellness/bacterialmeningitis.php.