Long term care facilities, LTCF are required to report all suspected and confirmed outbreaks to their local health jurisdiction, LHJ per Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-101-305. The goal of reporting is to prevent further spread of disease by implementing appropriate control measures.
How to report to the Communicable Disease Program
(1) Fax the disease specific line list template to 564.397.8080 (secure fax)
(2) Call the Communicable Disease Program (Ph: 564.397.8182) for any questions.
Disease specific toolkits
Influenza:
- Influenza Outbreak Preparation and Management Quick Guide
- Influenza Outbreak in LTCF Frequently Asked Questions
- Tamiflu Standing Orders Template
- Influenza FAQ
- WA State DOH Recommendations for Prevention and Control of Influenza Outbreaks in LTCF
- CDC Guidance for Antiviral Agents
- Managing Influenza Outbreaks in LTCF (Oregon Patient Safety Commission)
Gastrointestinal (GI) Illness:
- GI Quick Reference Guide for LTCFs
- CDC Key Infection Control Recommendations
- CDC Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Norovirus Gastroenteritis Outbreaks in Healthcare Settings
- CDC Norovirus outbreak control resource toolkit (lots of printable materials)
- EPA Registered Disinfectants Effective Against Norovirus
- Norovirus Training for Environmental Cleaning Staff (Oregon Patient Safety Commission)