Mar. 14, 2020 – Update re: Parties and Gatherings
Dear Vanderbilt Students,
I am following up with a health and safety reminder in light of the news today that an non-residential, undergraduate Vanderbilt student has tested positive for COVID-19.
The Tennessee Department of Health recommends that in order to decrease the spread of COVID-19, students should avoid sharing drinks, cups or utensils. Students should also avoid large gatherings; we encourage you to stay home and only gather in small groups, while practicing social distancing. It is imperative that you take steps to limit your exposure. You should particularly avoid sharing cups in drinking games or participating in large, packed parties.
We are in the midst of public health emergency and the individual actions we each take at this time will have an impact on the spread of illness. By following common sense prevention measures, you protect your own health and the health of others, especially those who may have compromised immune systems.
The Student Health Center will be open today until 6:00 pm to evaluate students who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, fever) or who have questions about exposure. Students, who have already left campus for home and our concerned about their health, should contact their local health providers.
Close contacts of the positive case will be notified by the Health Department of their exposure. Any students who think they may have been exposed should stay home and self-isolate. All students should remain extra vigilant for symptoms of COVID-19. Anyone developing symptoms may call the VUMC COVID-19 hotline at 888-3132-0847 or may contact the Student Health Center on-call provider at 615-322-2427.
Continue to stay informed with the latest health and campus information at vu.edu/coronavirus.
Best,
Mark Bandas
Associate Provost and Dean of Students