| What Long Term Care Leaders Should Know About the CDC Hantavirus Alert | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/What-Long-Term-Care-Leaders-Should-Know-About-the-CDC-Hantavirus-Alert-.aspx | What Long Term Care Leaders Should Know About the CDC Hantavirus Alert | | | | | 5/26/2026 4:00:00 AM | | <p><span style="font-size:11pt;">The recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) <a href="mailto:https://www.cdc.gov/han/php/notices/han00528.html?ACSTrackingID=DM155339&ACSTrackingLabel=HAN%20529%20-%20Health%20Advisory%20(for%20COCA%20partners)&deliveryName=DM155339" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">Health Alert Network update</a> regarding hantavirus has understandably raised questions across healthcare settings, including long term care. While headlines involving outbreaks and respiratory illness can quickly generate concern, context matters when assessing the actual level of risk and operational impact for providers and residents. </span></p><div><span style="font-size:11pt;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">At this time, the CDC continues to emphasize that the overall risk to the American public remains very low. The current concern is tied to a travel-associated Andes virus outbreak connected to a cruise ship exposure event; not widespread U.S. transmission. </span></div><div> </div><div>Importantly, the Andes strain differs from the hantaviruses more commonly seen in the United States. Historically, most U.S. cases have occurred in western states such as New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah and are typically associated with exposure to infected deer mice in rural environments. <br></div><div> </div><div>For long term care providers, this is not currently a situation requiring operational changes or heightened respiratory precautions. Instead, it serves as a reminder to: </div><div> <br></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Reinforce environmental safety and rodent control practices, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Maintain clinical awareness for severe respiratory illness with relevant travel exposure, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">And continue communicating clearly and calmly with staff and families. </span></li></ul></div><div><br></div><div>Another important takeaway is how rapidly public health and laboratory systems mobilized in this response. Following the outbreak, researchers developed a <a href="mailto:https://www.cdc.gov/han/php/notices/han00529.html?ACSTrackingID=DM155339&ACSTrackingLabel=HAN%20529%20-%20Health%20Advisory%20(for%20COCA%20partners)&deliveryName=DM155339" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">PCR test</a> for the Andes virus within days; a reflection of how much infectious disease preparedness and response infrastructure has evolved since COVID-19. </div><div><br></div><div>Long term care organizations have significantly strengthened infection prevention, surveillance, and emergency preparedness capabilities over the past several years. Events like this reinforce the importance of maintaining strong public health partnerships, clinical awareness, and responding thoughtfully as new information emerges. Facilities should partner closely with Medical Directors and an infection prevention leader to interpret evolving public health guidance. </div><div><br></div><div>Any questions may be directed to <a href="mailto:regulatory@ahca.org" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">regulatory@ahca.org. </a><br></div><p></p> | The recent CDC Health Alert Network update regarding hantavirus has understandably raised questions across healthcare settings, including long term care. | |
| Maintenance Director Training Course on ahcancalED | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/Maintenance-Director-Training-Course-on-ahcancalED.aspx | Maintenance Director Training Course on ahcancalED | | | | | 4/14/2026 4:00:00 AM | | <p><span style="font-size:11pt;">The Emergency Preparedness & Life Safety Committee is excited to announce another live session to introduce more providers to the </span><a href="https://educate.ahcancal.org/products/maintenance-director-training" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank" style="font-size:11pt;">Maintenance Director Training Course</a><span style="font-size:11pt;">, now available on ahcancalED. This resource is designed to support long term care facility managers and maintenance directors in building compliant environmental programs that meet regulatory standards. </span></p><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">The Maintenance Director Training Course is structured into four focused modules, each addressing critical areas of facility safety and compliance: </span></div><div><br></div><div><ol><li>Maintenance Director Overview </li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Fire and Smoke Door Inspection </span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Generator Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance </span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Portable P</span><span style="font-size:11pt;">atient-Care Related Electrical Equipment (PCREE) Testing </span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Kitchen Fire Safety and Compliance </span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Oxygen Cylinder Storage </span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">Sprinkler System Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance </span></li></ol></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Each module includes educational videos, downloadable PowerPoint presentations, and handouts to support learning and implementation. </span></div><div><br></div><div>Whether you’re looking to train new staff or reinforce existing protocols, this course offers flexible learning options. Modules can be completed individually or as a full series, allowing facilities to tailor the experience to their specific needs. </div><div><br></div><div>Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate that can be used to demonstrate competency in fire and smoke door inspections, fulfilling annual requirements under NFPA 80 and NFPA 105, as part of the 2012 Life Safety Code®. </div><div><br></div><div>AHCA/NCAL members are invited to a <a href="https://educate.ahcancal.org/products/maintenance-director-training" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">live webinar</a> on <strong>April 22 at 12PM ET.</strong> Attendees will get an overview of the training program and be able to participate in a live Q&A session with life safety experts. <em>Registration is free for AHCA/NCAL members, $65 for nonmembers.</em><br></div><p></p> | The Emergency Preparedness & Life Safety Committee is excited to announce another live session to introduce more providers to the Maintenance Director Training Course, now available on ahcancalED. | |
| New Therapeutics Reporting Options Now Available in NHSN | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/New-Therapeutics-Reporting-Options-Now-Available-in-NHSN-.aspx | New Therapeutics Reporting Options Now Available in NHSN | | | | | 4/14/2026 4:00:00 AM | | <p><span style="font-size:11pt;">Beginning March 30, 2026, facilities may optionally report weekly data on therapeutics administered to residents for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV using the NHSN Respiratory Pathogens and Vaccination (RPV) Module. </span></p><div><strong style="font-size:11pt;"><em>Reporting for the therapeutics data fields is optional.</em></strong><span style="font-size:11pt;"> More information is available in the following resources: </span></div><div><br></div><div><ul><li><a href="https://t.emailupdates.cdc.gov/r/?id=h9be65054%2c1f2ca05b%2c1f2cddee&e=QUNTVHJhY2tpbmdJRD1VU0NEQ18yMTM3LURNMTU0MTQzJkFDU1RyYWNraW5nTGFiZWw9TmV3JTIwVGhlcmFwZXV0aWNzJTIwUmVwb3J0aW5nJTIwT3B0aW9ucyUyMEF2YWlsYWJsZSUyMGluJTIwTkhTTg&s=rscTUVcJF6-D8DNxMBl-zwFaBoRqx83v-H0YZDqP1fk" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">LTCF Respiratory Pathogens and Vaccination Module CDC Webpage</a>. This site includes revised forms, instructions, FAQs, .CSV file templates, and file layout documents <br><br></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><a href="https://t.emailupdates.cdc.gov/r/?id=h9be65054%2c1f2ca05b%2c1f2cddef&e=QUNTVHJhY2tpbmdJRD1VU0NEQ18yMTM3LURNMTU0MTQzJkFDU1RyYWNraW5nTGFiZWw9TmV3JTIwVGhlcmFwZXV0aWNzJTIwUmVwb3J0aW5nJTIwT3B0aW9ucyUyMEF2YWlsYWJsZSUyMGluJTIwTkhTTg&s=UPAUo6ZdMMxuTM48DwBTnusieCnJ02bHQyEhuc_d9BY" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">Weekly Respiratory Pathogen and Vaccination Summary for Residents of Long Term Care Facilities (57.218)</a> <br><br></span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><a href="https://t.emailupdates.cdc.gov/r/?id=h9be65054%2c1f2ca05b%2c1f2cddf0&e=QUNTVHJhY2tpbmdJRD1VU0NEQ18yMTM3LURNMTU0MTQzJkFDU1RyYWNraW5nTGFiZWw9TmV3JTIwVGhlcmFwZXV0aWNzJTIwUmVwb3J0aW5nJTIwT3B0aW9ucyUyMEF2YWlsYWJsZSUyMGluJTIwTkhTTg&s=GTUg3C_SSGq7JePaE0ukHD9NpRSYOkdqxl94kklAV7E" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">RPV Residents Table of Instructions</a> <br><br></span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><a href="https://t.emailupdates.cdc.gov/r/?id=h9be65054%2c1f2ca05b%2c1f2cddf1&e=QUNTVHJhY2tpbmdJRD1VU0NEQ18yMTM3LURNMTU0MTQzJkFDU1RyYWNraW5nTGFiZWw9TmV3JTIwVGhlcmFwZXV0aWNzJTIwUmVwb3J0aW5nJTIwT3B0aW9ucyUyMEF2YWlsYWJsZSUyMGluJTIwTkhTTg&s=xoPCDfOqZqcs4vRGQxm0XuG87OsahS6S2wtNHibJPwI" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">2026 Respiratory Pathogens & Vaccination Protocol </a> <br><br></span></li><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><a href="https://t.emailupdates.cdc.gov/r/?id=h9be65054%2c1f2ca05b%2c1f2cddf2&e=QUNTVHJhY2tpbmdJRD1VU0NEQ18yMTM3LURNMTU0MTQzJkFDU1RyYWNraW5nTGFiZWw9TmV3JTIwVGhlcmFwZXV0aWNzJTIwUmVwb3J0aW5nJTIwT3B0aW9ucyUyMEF2YWlsYWJsZSUyMGluJTIwTkhTTg&s=MDjytwhJg4Kxqa7pLoPV57QKXd0svLPkuVt61NraKOg" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">RPV Module Residents Group and Facility CSV File Layout </a> <br><br></span></li></ul></div><a href="https://t.emailupdates.cdc.gov/r/?id=h9be65054%2c1f2ca05b%2c1f2cddf3&e=QUNTVHJhY2tpbmdJRD1VU0NEQ18yMTM3LURNMTU0MTQzJkFDU1RyYWNraW5nTGFiZWw9TmV3JTIwVGhlcmFwZXV0aWNzJTIwUmVwb3J0aW5nJTIwT3B0aW9ucyUyMEF2YWlsYWJsZSUyMGluJTIwTkhTTg&s=z8DZdEmMReRd6W9Uwu4awLdivvJ4JGB0_5OVWIZ1dlk" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"><div><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;">RPV Module Resident Summary Guidance Document </span></li></ul></div></a><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">The NHSN team will host two training sessions in late April 2026 to review RPV Module updates including new therapeutics reporting capabilities. Registration links and additional information will be sent closer to the event. </span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Please submit questions to the NHSN Help Desk via <a href="https://t.emailupdates.cdc.gov/r/?id=h9be65054%2c1f2ca05b%2c1f2cddf4&e=QUNTVHJhY2tpbmdJRD1VU0NEQ18yMTM3LURNMTU0MTQzJkFDU1RyYWNraW5nTGFiZWw9TmV3JTIwVGhlcmFwZXV0aWNzJTIwUmVwb3J0aW5nJTIwT3B0aW9ucyUyMEF2YWlsYWJsZSUyMGluJTIwTkhTTg&s=CvXcb1oL7yhvEO7CyV_4aPXmeIFTzPcXioxFhGw6nMk" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">NHSN-ServiceNow</a> with the subject line “Therapeutics Reporting”. If you are unable to access NHSN-ServiceNow, please <a href="mailto:nhsn@cdc.gov?subject=Therapeutics%20Reporting" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">submit a question</a> to the NHSN Help Desk via email at <a href="mailto:nhsn@cdc.gov" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">nhsn@cdc.gov</a> with the same subject line. You may also submit questions to <a href="mailto:regulatory@ahca.org" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">regulatory@ahca.org</a>.</span><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span></div><p><br></p> | Beginning March 30, 2026, facilities may optionally report weekly data on therapeutics administered to residents for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV using the NHSN RPV Module.
| |
| Are You Prepared for a Gas Emergency? | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/Are-You-Prepared-for-a-Gas-Emergency-.aspx | Are You Prepared for a Gas Emergency? | | | | | 4/7/2026 4:00:00 AM | | <p><span style="font-size:11pt;">Natural gas and propane are common fuel sources in long term care facilities. These gases are widely used to power heating systems, cooking equipment, fireplaces, and emergency generators. As part of your organization’s annual Hazard Vulnerability Assessment (HVA), the use of and reliance on natural gas or propane is typically evaluated. </span></p><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">That assessment should address not only the operational impact of a gas service interruption, but also the risks associated with a gas leak. While the likelihood of a significant gas leak is generally low, the consequences can be severe. Certain concentrations of gas mixed with air can create an explosive atmosphere, where even a small ignition source may result in a serious explosion. </span></div><div><br></div><div><strong>Recognizing the Signs of a Gas Leak </strong></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Early recognition of a gas leak is critical to minimizing risk. Staff should be trained to recognize the following warning signs: </span></div><div><ul><li><strong>Smell: </strong>Natural gas and propane are odorized with mercaptan, which creates a strong rotten-egg or sulfur-like smell to make leaks easier to detect. <br></li><li><strong>Sound:</strong> Escaping gas may produce a hissing or whistling sound. Larger leaks may sound like a roaring noise. <br></li><li><strong>Sight:</strong> Although gas is invisible, leaks may produce a white mist, fog, or cloud. Underground leaks may cause bubbling in standing water or result in dead or discolored vegetation. </li></ul></div><div><br></div><div><strong>Response Actions When a Gas Leak Is Suspected </strong></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">When a gas leak is identified or suspected, staff should immediately initiate the facility’s gas emergency procedures. These procedures should include the following actions: <br><br></span></div><div><ol><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>Move People to Safety </strong></span></li><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">For interior leaks, relocate residents and staff away from the affected area. This may involve moving residents to a remote section of the building or evacuating to a safe distance outdoors. </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">For exterior leaks, it may be safer to bring residents indoors and close doors and windows to limit gas infiltration. <br><br></span></li></ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>Eliminate Potential Ignition Sources </strong></span></li><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Extinguish all open flames and prohibit smoking. </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Dietary staff should turn off pilot lights and shut down gas-fired cooking equipment if the leak is in or near the kitchen. </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Do not operate light switches, phones, or other electrical devices in the affected area. </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Do not unplug electrical equipment, as unplugging can create a spark. <br><br></span></li></ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>Notify Emergency Services and the Gas Utility</strong> </span></li><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Call 911 and notify the gas company immediately. </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Fire department responders and gas utility personnel have specialized equipment to locate leaks and secure gas service. </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Follow all instructions provided by emergency responders, as additional evacuation may be required. <br><br></span></li></ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"><strong>Notify Maintenance </strong></span></li><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">Maintenance personnel should be trained to shut off gas service to individual appliances or the entire building. </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:11pt;"></span><span style="font-size:11pt;">For exterior leaks, Maintenance should shut down or adjust HVAC systems, through-the-wall units, and window units to reduce the intake of outside air. </span></li></ul></ol></div><div><br></div><div><strong>Preparing in Advance </strong></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Gas emergencies can occur at any time, including when maintenance staff may not be immediately available. Facilities should consider developing clear, easy-to-read diagrams that identify all utility shut-off locations, including gas valves, and include step-by-step shut-off instructions. </span></div><div><br></div><div>Keeping appropriate tools, such as a gas shut-off wrench, secured near shut-off valves can be helpful. Ensure that diagrams and instructions are accessible to staff on all shifts so they can provide them to emergency responders or initiate shut-down procedures themselves if responders are delayed. </div><div><br></div><div><strong>Additional Resources </strong></div><div><span style="font-size:11pt;">Most gas utility companies offer online education and emergency preparedness resources related to gas safety. These materials can be valuable when reviewing and updating your facility’s gas leak emergency procedures. Additional emergency preparedness tools and resources are also available through <a href="/Survey-Regulatory-Legal/Emergency-Preparedness/Pages/default.aspx" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">AHCA’s emergency preparedness webpage</a>. </span></div><div><br></div><div>Questions can be sent to <a href="mailto:emergencyprep@ahca.org" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">emergencyprep@ahca.org</a>.<br></div><p></p> | Natural gas and propane are common fuel sources in long term care facilities. | |