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:
COVID-19 and Influenza Recommendations for Skilled Nursing Facilities and Assisted Living Facilities
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)