Information for VUMC Employees and Patients

Being current with COVID vaccinations and boosters is the best way to reduce risk of serious illness and protect those with underlying health conditions.

Schedule your COVID vaccines and boosters

Current visitor policies

Effective April 11, 2023, universal masking is optional in our hospitals and clinics for employees, patients and visitors. Please respect others' choices.

In some circumstances, such as a patient who has symptoms of acute respiratory infection, some patients may be asked to mask.

Post-COVID care

Sometimes, people have lingering symptoms after a case of COVID. Learn more about post-COVID care at Vanderbilt Health.

COVID testing before a procedure

Other Ways to Reduce Spread

Here are some common-sense tips for reducing the spread of respiratory infections, including COVID, flu, RSV and common colds.

  • Wear masks in public, especially in crowds and/or indoors. This is why we still require masks in patient-care areas of Vanderbilt Health hospitals and clinics.
  • Wash hands well and often.
  • Keep distance from others in public settings.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with handkerchiefs or your inner arm/sleeve. 
  • Stay home if you feel sick, especially if you have a fever. 

    Why You Should Test If You Think You Have COVID

    If you have symptoms and think you might have COVID, we encourage you to get a test.

    Here's why:

    If you're at risk of getting very sick or even dying, we now have several treatments for COVID-19 that can significantly lower your risk. But these treatments need to be started soon after your first symptoms. Testing for COVID when you have symptoms is very important to catch it early and begin care.

    It also helps you know to take steps not to get others sick.

    Learn more on our My Southern Health blog.

    Other COVID Resources