This article was provided by Vanderbilt Occupational Health:
We are officially into summer, which means vacations are ramping up. As you write your checklist, pack your suitcase, and book your trip, here are few important reminders from the Occupational Health Clinic.
There’s nothing worse than getting sick when you go on a trip, especially if it’s COVID-19. The good news is there are ways to help prevent you from lying in bed instead of on the beach.
- Make sure you and your family are up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.
- Wear a mask if you are in an indoor public space especially if:
- community levels of COVID-19 infection are high, or
- you are at a higher risk for severe COVID-19 disease, or
- you want to be as cautious as possible
- Take a COVID-19 test before travel by plane.
- Consider testing for COVID-19 after travel, especially if you were in crowded places.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Try to avoid poorly ventilated areas.
Per the CDC, you are considered up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines when you have received all doses of your primary series as well as all boosters recommended for you. Remember, you can walk into the Occupational Health Clinic on the 6th floor of the Medical Arts Building to receive your COVID-19 vaccine or booster. Plus, VUMC employees can get 2 free COVID-19 at-home test kits at either the Occupational Health Clinic or the Vanderbilt Health One Hundred Oaks COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic located on the 3rd floor. At home test kits are also available at Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital, Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital, and Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital in the Employee Health Office.
If you become ill before, during, or after travel, be sure to be tested for COVID-19 and remember that treatment options exist for those who may be at high risk of severe COVID-19 infection.
So, as you pack up your sunscreen and plan your activities, don’t forget to take care of your health! For more information on COVID-19 and other health services, visit the Occupational Health Clinic website.
