From 400 to 4,000: Spike in COVID-19 case numbers places strain on Nashville hospitals

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Back in early July, Dr. Alex Jahangir reports there were more than 400 COVID-19 cases in Nashville. With the rapid spread of virus variants, that number is now at more than 4,000.

According to the latest statistics fromDavidson County’s COVID-19 dashboard, there are currently 4,243 active COVID-19 cases and 306 active hospitalizations in Nashville.

Vanderbilt's Dr. William Schaffner says the city is in the midst of another spike in cases that he believes was preventable.

“This is an outbreak, a sustained epidemic, among the unvaccinated which is spilling over into the vaccinated," Dr. Schaffner said.

Vanderbilt alone is caring for 130 COVID-19 patients. Dr. Schaffner reports the majority of cases the hospital has seen are among those not vaccinated against the virus.Dr. Jahangir backed that sentiment, announcing that 97 percent of people admitted to area hospitals are unvaccinated.

The uptick in cases has placed a strain on healthcare workers and exhausted resources. Dr. Tama Van Decar, Chief Medical Officer, HCA Healthcare, TriStar Division, said TriStar is reviewing its contingency plans as hospital capacity dwindles in Nashville.

"We are experiencing another wave that is at or higher than previous peaks," Dr. Tama Van Decar said. "The time for action is now."

Health leaders in Nashville are continuing to urge residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Find vaccine information and locations here.