February 4, 2020

Latest update from VUMC Infection Prevention on 2019 novel coronavirus

Message from Tom Talbot, MD, MPH, Chief Hospital Epidemiologist for VUMC:

VUMC continues to monitor the ongoing 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak. We want to highlight important points and resources for VUMC faculty and staff to help address any questions or concerns:

  • The FAQs about coronavirus posted on the Department of Infection Prevention website have been updated to reflect additional questions, such as how to manage patients calling the clinic with concerns of infection and updated testing criteria from the CDC (see HERE).
  • A few important key points about 2019-nCoV that have arisen recently:
    • The respiratory pathogen panel used throughout VUMC tests for 4 types of coronavirus (HKU1, NL63, 229E and OC43).  These are different coronaviruses from 2019-nCoV that commonly circulate and cause respiratory illness in the US. A positive RPP for these coronaviruses does not mean the patient has been infected with 2019-nCoV. The 2019-nCoV does not cross-react with these tests.  VUMC is working to add clarifying language to these test results in eStar to avoid any confusion.
    • There is no indication to test or quarantine any individual who may have been around persons who have traveled to China (as long as those contacts are not being tested for 2019-nCoV or a confirmed case of 2019-nCoV) but have not personally traveled there themselves
  • Continue to screen all patients who come to VUMC for travel and fever/respiratory symptoms as per eStar travel screen (see HERE).
  • As they arrive at a VUMC facility/clinic, continue to ask any patient presenting with cold/flu-like respiratory symptoms to put on a surgical mask while at VUMC. This is an important safety practice for any respiratory virus, not just 2019-nCoV, as we are still seeing ample cases of influenza and RSV throughout the region.
  • There is no additional guidance from our public health partners regarding the announced quarantine on travelers from China.  We are working closely with the Tennessee Department of Health as guidance on this issue emerges and will update the VUMC community as details emerge.
  • More information can be found at the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

While the risk of 2019-nCoV transmission remains low in the United States, we must remain vigilant and cautious.  For questions or additional information, please contact the VUMC Department of Infection Prevention at 936-0725 or via pager 835-1205.