Prevent the spread of respiratory viruses

To the UT Southwestern Community:

With winter being the peak of cold and flu season, we are experiencing cases of COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that are consistent with seasonal trends. We write today to reassure you of the safeguards we have in place and to remind you of steps to protect yourself, as well as the health of those around you, including our patients.

A team of physicians, nurses, and Health System administrators at UTSW, including those with expertise in infection prevention and infectious diseases, is closely monitoring respiratory virus activity across our region, state, and nation, as well as within our hospitals and clinics and on our campus. The latest trends indicate a leveling out and, in some instances, decreasing cases after a brief elevation following the holidays. Additionally, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and deaths due to COVID-19 remain lower than in previous seasons, which suggests that COVID-19 infections are causing less severe disease than earlier in the pandemic.

We do, however, want to reinforce that if you are symptomatic, stay home and get tested, and if someone in your household is showing symptoms, consider masking to reduce transmission. Please continue to consult Occupational Health if you’ve had a known COVID-19 exposure and complete the online screening form as a first step. This employee grid also provides quick guidance on what to do if you develop symptoms.

Additionally, we continue to offer COVID-19 testing at our main campus and regional medical sites in Fort Worth and Frisco. Given that vaccination remains the best defense from severe illness due to these respiratory viruses, flu vaccines and COVID-19 boosters are also available at our retail pharmacy locations.

Here are some other helpful resources:

Our collective commitment to safety and adherence to preventive measures makes a demonstrable difference. Thank you for consistently prioritizing the well-being of those we have the privilege to care for as well as each other.

Jonathan Efron, M.D.
Executive Vice President for Health System Affairs

Susan Hernandez, D.N.P., M.B.A., RN
Associate Vice President and Health System Chief Nurse Executive

Seth Toomay, M.D.
Associate Vice President and Health System Chief Medical Officer