Throughout the country, there is a high level of COVID-19 transmission, and U.S. wastewater surveillance data has shown that COVID-19 cases have continued to climb. What we’re seeing at Texas Children’s mirrors this trend as our test positivity exceeded 10% through the past week. We have remained at or near double-digit COVID-19 test positivity since mid-December with no evidence of a decline yet this winter.
“Based on what we’re seeing in our clinical data, we strongly advise our team members receive the latest COVID-19 vaccine,” said Texas Children’s Pathologist-In-Chief Dr. James Versalovic. “We have worked so hard to protect ourselves, coworkers, patients, members and their families. We need to continue to do what we can to help limit the spread of these highly transmissible COVID-19 variants and help everyone stay healthy.”
The updated vaccine (similar to yearly influenza vaccines) provides more current and more complete protection. Specifically, it includes the more recent Omicron XBB variant, which is significant as the circulating variants continue to be Omicron.
Schedule your free COVID-19 vaccine
All team members (including BCM faculty and staff) can click here to schedule a free vaccine appointment through Employee Health at Medical Center, West and Woodlands campuses and Austin Mopac.
If you prefer to receive the vaccine at an outside provider, most medical plans cover COVID-19 vaccines at 100% under preventive care at an in-network provider. Out-of-network coverage depends on the plan in regards to cost share. Employees can visit www.myCigna.com or use the myCigna app for more information.
Additional resources
Remember, please stay home if you feel sick and get tested if you have respiratory symptoms compatible with COVID-19. Antiviral treatments are effective if administered early enough for COVID-19. Early diagnosis and treatment also reduce spread of viruses in the workplace. Click here to review the COVID-19 Return to Work process.
Access the Employee Health Virtual Assistant from any device, any time, on or off the Texas Children’s network for COVID-19 related guidance and support.
If you have any questions, please contact the Employee Health Nurse Support Line at 832-VACCINE (832.822.2463), open Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Team members can also email employeevaccines@texaschildrens.org.
For more information on COVID-19, please visit our COVID Command website on Connect.