Long-term care and other providers are being prodded into action for a potential coronavirus outbreak in the United States following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials’ warning that they expect it to spread at a community level.
“Already, the White House has requested $2.5 billion in preliminary funding for the response to a potential stateside outbreak, and some critics say even this may not be enough,” LeadingAge noted in a blog post Wednesday.
“[B]ecause the people we serve are typically more vulnerable to exposure and illness from viruses like Coronavirus, we emphasize that now is the time for calm preparedness for a possible domestic epidemic,” it added.
Providers are being asked to assemble emergency preparedness and operations teams in order to prepare for a potential outbreak. They should also review their infection control protocols and take an inventory of supplies.
Additionally, the association recommended that providers prepare staff members, as well. This would include providing educational resources and timely updates about the virus, reminding them on hand hygiene training and offering resources to help manage stress and anxiety.
“Like so many of the easily-transmissible diseases and viruses we prepare for every day in our communities, everyone can prepare with a few simple reminders: Wash your hands frequently; cover your mouth when you sneeze; maintain ‘social distances’ of a few feet near people who show symptoms; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and stay home and get medical attention if you are sick,” the LeadingAge memo added.
