The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released interim guidance for long term care (LTC) and post acute care facilities for the 2022-2023 influenza season.
Influenza can be introduced into a LTC facility by newly admitted residents, health care personnel and visitors. The spread of influenza can occur between and among residents, health care personnel, and visitors. Residents of LTC facilities can experience severe and fatal illness during influenza outbreaks.
Preventing transmission of influenza viruses and other infectious agents within health care settings requires a multi-faceted approach that includes the following:
- Influenza Vaccination
- Influenza Testing
- Infection Prevention and Control Measures
- Antiviral Treatment
- Antiviral Chemoprophylaxis
Before an outbreak occurs, influenza vaccination should be provided routinely to all residents and health care personnel of LTCfacilities.
The CDC also provides its recommendations for influenza vaccines, as well as its guidance on influenza antiviral medications.