It’s that time of year where everyone seems to be coughing, sniffling and sneezing. We are experiencing increased upticks across the community with cases of COVID-19, flu and other respiratory illnesses. Below are a few reminders on how to protect yourselves and others against these viruses and where to get help if needed.
- Masking. While masking remains optional, we recommend you consider masking at work. In the community, consider masking, particularly in crowded areas. Masks are strongly encouraged for those with high-risk conditions. Please note that masks are widely available at Texas Children’s hospital campuses and care locations at building entry points.
- Hand hygiene. Clean your hands frequently and thoroughly to protect yourself and your patients. Clean your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer. Follow the Five Moments for Hand Hygiene ENG|ESP.
- COVID-19 vaccines and staying up to date. We continue to offer the updated COVID-19 vaccine to all team members (including BCM faculty and staff) through Employee Health at our Medical Center, West and Woodlands campuses in addition to Austin Mopac. The current COVID-19 vaccine provides greater protection against more recently encountered Omicron subvariants. To schedule a free appointment at one of these locations, please click here. 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.
- Feeling sick. Stay home if you feel sick and get tested if you have respiratory symptoms compatible with COVID-19 or flu. Note that antiviral treatments are effective if administered early enough for influenza or 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. For non-COVID-19 related illnesses, click here to review the Illness in the Workplace Policy.
- Employee Health Virtual Assistant. 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.