With public health data indicating COVID-19 positive cases in Nashville have begun trending upwards since Oct. 4, it is more important than ever for Vanderbilt community members to abide by university protocols at all times, whether on or off campus. The university remains in Phase II+ of the Vanderbilt Return to Campus Plan, which includes all wearing face masks/coverings, limiting gathering sizes and maintaining physical distancing in all parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Although Vanderbilt student positivity rates remain low. the university’s contact tracing has revealed that cases of COVID-19 transmission among Vanderbilt community members have occurred due to interactions at off-campus residences and restaurants and potentially other off-campus locations.
Residential students are encouraged to stay on campus as much as possible to not expose themselves to potential infections out in the community. Students living off campus this semester are encouraged to avoid high-density areas that could expose them to infections, including indoor venues where physical distancing and mask wearing are not enforced and large gatherings. Faculty, staff and postdocs are also encouraged to take precautions and avoid high-density areas.
The university has not had any COVID-19 transmission reported within classrooms, research spaces or dining halls.
The university will continue to constantly monitor and take guidance from experts at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the School of Nursing, and local, state and federal health officials when making determinations about any updates to current protocols.