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Responding to COVID-19

UT Southwestern is actively responding to the spread of COVID-19, with our infectious disease physicians leading our efforts to keep patients informed, educated, and safe.

Dealing with COVID-19 is a dynamically changing situation. To help navigate this environment, we’ve collected the latest information on appointments, patient and visitor policies, screening procedures, and closures. We’ve also provided information on our latest COVID-19 research efforts, as well as resources you can use to support your emotional well-being during this time. For more details, click the button below.

Our Care Commitment

COVID-19 forecasting for DFW

UT Southwestern’s COVID-19 current state analysis and forecasting model illustrates how COVID-19 is spreading across DFW based on real patient data we have received from Collin, Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant counties.

Tracking COVID-19 in Texas and beyond

  • Texas cases: Get updated statistics on coronavirus cases, testing, and recoveries with the state's COVID-19 tracker.
  • All cases: For a global perspective, see the COVID-19 dashboard.

The Road to a Vaccine

Why has it taken so long to develop a COVID-19 vaccine? The complex process of isolating the virus, producing antibodies, and testing a vaccine usually takes years. See how science has moved so quickly during the pandemic.

About COVID-19

How does COVID-19 spread?

The virus is now spreading from human to human by respiratory droplets from sneezing and coughing. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others, usually within six feet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that these patients be isolated in either a hospital or home environment (depending on illness severity) until they are better and are no longer at risk of infecting others.

To a lesser extent, COVID-19 can be spread from touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching one’s face. 

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Symptoms typically appear within 2 to 14 days after infection, and include:

  • Chills
  • Cough
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain
  • Nausea
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Repeated shaking with chills
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Sore throat

According to the CDC, if you develop any of the following symptoms – trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, bluish lips or face – seek medical attention immediately. 

What’s the difference between the flu and COVID-19?

Both seasonal influenza and COVID-19 have similar symptoms, including fever, cough, body aches, and fatigue. Both viruses can cause a range of diseases from mild to severe and are at times fatal, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions. Seasonal influenza can be treated with antivirals, such as Tamiflu, in conjunction with additional supportive care. There's currently no preventive vaccines for COVID-19 but some antivirals are in use.

Our Response to COVID-19