Respiratory virus season continues to surge in Middle Tennessee, driven by very high rates of influenza A. In accordance to VUMC guidelines for enhanced infection prevention actions with respiratory virus surges (see here for more information), the following actions will start Jan. 12.
1. Universal masking of all persons on the following high-risk units: EVERYONE who enters these locations should wear a surgical or procedural mask at all times when on the unit.
- VUH: 11 North, 10 CCT
- Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt: 6A and 6B
- Adult Ambulatory: Outpatient Transplant Unit (OTU)
2. In addition, all VUMC personnel who have not yet received a seasonal influenza vaccine for the 2025-26 season (including those with approved exemptions) should wear a surgical or procedural mask in ALL areas of VUMC (clinical and nonclinical), as per the VUMC Immunization Policy.
Any VUMC team member can wear a mask in other locations voluntarily. We ask everyone to remain respectful of those who choose to make this decision. The Department of Infection Prevention will continue to track measures of respiratory virus activity. In the event such metrics increase, other interventions, including universal masking in all clinical areas, may be reinstituted. For more information on how to protect yourself and your patients from respiratory viruses, visit https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/about/index.html.