VUMC Infection Prevention continues to monitor coronavirus situation

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

As the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19) continues to spread, with new cases reported in, among other places, Italy, Iran, Japan, and South Korea, VUMC continues to monitor the outbreak closely.

VUMC has an operational team that has been working for weeks now on planning in the event that VUMC sees a surge of suspected COVID-19 patients. This is in conjunction with the Tennessee Department of Health. In addition, as of Monday, the Tennessee State Laboratory is able to conduct our testing for suspected patients.

Please note that there have been no changes in recommendations from the Tennessee Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with regard to patient testing, infection control precautions, or any other aspect of dealing with the situation.  

Remember that the respiratory pathogen panel used throughout VUMC tests for 4 types of coronavirus (HKU1, NL63, 229E and OC43).  These are different coronaviruses from COVID-19 that commonly circulate and cause respiratory illness in the U.S. A positive RPP for these coronaviruses does not mean the patient has been infected with COVID-19. COVID-19 does not cross-react with these tests.  VUMC has added clarifying language to these test results in eStar to avoid any confusion.

Finally, it’s important to note that the situation continues to change as new information is reported, and that VUMC officials continue to monitor and plan our response.  We pledge to update employees and students about any new information or changes in policy or procedures.

Previous updates are available here:

• Returning traveler recommendations outlined.
• Patient screening precautions are here.
• The Department of Infection Prevention has FAQs about coronavirus posted here.
• More information can be found at the CDC website here.