Targeting three key areas can help facilities prevent respiratory outbreaks this winter, according to the US COVID-19 Response Coordinator Ashish Jha, MD, MPH.

1. Ensure residents and staff are up-to-date on flu and COVID-19 vaccinations
2. Use regular testing and available treatments like COVID-19 oral anti-viral medications.
3. Improve indoor air quality with portable air filters or scheduled HVAC system servicing or upgrades.

Why it matters: Virginia is in the midst of the worst flu season in a decade. This risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 and RSV for seniors with chronic health conditions is also high.

Go deeper:

• Listen to AHCA/NCAL’s recorded members-only webinar featuring Dr. Jha, AHCA/NCAL Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Gifford, and others.
• Check out this AHCA/NCAL blog post: Improving Indoor Air Quality During the Winter Months.
• Request CMP Reinvestment Funds for air quality improvements.
• Use resources and tools in the We Can Do This campaign from the US Department of Health and Human Services to boost vaccine uptake.