Current Health Advisories

Please check back frequently for updates about current public health concerns. If you have any further questions, please contact Health Services.

Protect Yourself and Our Community

Get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine!

You may have heard about measles cases in the national news recently. It is important to know what you can do to protect yourself, your loved ones, the UMass Lowell community and the greater Lowell community. The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and is the most effective way to prevent measles. Two doses are 97% effective in reducing the risk of measles.

What is measles? Measles is a serious viral infection that causes fever, cough, rash and in some cases pneumonia or brain swelling. The classic rash usually appears 2 to 4 days after the fever, runny nose and cough begin. Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases. It is spread by coughing, sneezing or even breathing air that was breathed by someone with measles. The virus can remain active in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.

Who Needs the MMR Vaccine?

Children: Two doses are recommended -- the first at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years.

Adults: You are generally considered immune if you received the two childhood doses. If you did not receive the two childhood doses or are unsure of your vaccination or immune status, check with your healthcare provider.

Take Action Today! Check your vaccination status with your healthcare provider. MMR vaccination is a required part of the enrollment process for UMass Lowell students.

Get vaccinated if you’re due for a dose. Encourage friends and family to stay up to date on their vaccinations.

UML Health Services offers MMR vaccinations to students who are eligible for services. Please call Health Services if you have questions or would like to make an appointment: 978-934-6800.

More Infomation About Measles

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccination (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Measles (Mass.gov)

Staying Healthy on Campus

Going to class brings exposure to germs. As the weather gets warm, the presence of mosquitoes and ticks also poses the threat of disease.

The good news is UMass Lowell students, faculty and staff can protect themselves — and each other — by taking a few commonsense precautions.

Mosquitoes and Ticks

Mosquitoes and ticks are nuisances, as well as sources of potentially serious disease.

Stay healthy by following some simple steps to avoid contact:

  1. Use insect repellent, and follow the instructions.
  2. Wear light-colored, protective clothing including long sleeves, pants and socks — particularly during dawn and dusk hours.
  3. Avoid tick habitats such as tall grasses and shrubs.
  4. Take steps to keep mosquitoes out of your home, including by eliminating sources of standing water.
  5. Use other mosquito controls, such as citronella candles.
  6. Check yourself, your children and pets for ticks when coming inside.
  7. Monitor local risks, especially before traveling, and watch for symptoms of illness.
  8. Call your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms after a mosquito or tick bite such as fever, headache, fatigue, rash, joint or muscle pain.

Respiratory Viruses

Most sore throats, colds and respiratory illnesses are caused by viruses that typically resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. These are spread through tiny air droplets released when a sick person sneezes, coughs or blows their nose.

Avoid getting sick by being vaccinated against flu and COVID-19, and washing your hands often.

If you do get sick, protect others by STAYING HOME, wearing a mask, getting tested for COVID-19 and other viruses, and seeking treatment if one is available.

Stay home until you’re fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications, and you’re other symptoms are improving.

Seek medical care if you have:

  • Fever above 103 degrees that doesn’t respond to medication.
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.
  • Sudden dizziness.
  • Confusion.
  • Severe or persistent vomiting.
  • Symptoms that improve but then return with fever or a worse cough.

UMass Lowell is currently finalizing flu shot clinics for later this fall. Watch the UML Today announcements in the coming weeks for more details.

More Information