NEW: Message from Dr. C. Wright Pinson: VUMC called on to rise to the challenge as COVID cases surge

Colleagues, All indications are that we will be heading into a strengthening storm following the Thanksgiving holiday. Tennessee's COVID metrics are getting worse as the U.S. is now approaching 200,000 new cases each day. Tragically, more than 255,000 Americans have died since the pandemic began. Consistent with rising infection rates across the nation, over the past week we have experienced a surge in the number of COVID-19 patients now in our care. View...

UPDATE: COVID exposure/post-infection and return-to-work FAQs

Exposure is defined as being within 6 feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. View...

UPDATE: CDC issues updated guidance for Thanksgiving holiday travel

On Nov. 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance for Thanksgiving holiday travel. The revised guidance encourages staying home as the best means to protect yourself and others. View...

NEW: Why does COVID-19 seem to spare children?

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and their colleagues have determined a key factor as to why COVID-19 appears to infect and sicken adults and older people preferentially while seeming to spare younger children. View...

REMINDER: Employee flu vaccines due Dec. 1

The flu vaccine can take up to two weeks after being administered to provide full protection, so it is recommended to obtain it as early as possible to ensure the greatest protection throughout the entire flu season. For VUMC faculty and staff, the deadline for flu vaccination or approved flu exemption is Dec. 1. View...