The DSS Division of Licensing Programs issued a COVID-19 update on December 17. The update addresses COVID-19 immunization and boosters, the Omicron variant, widespread flu activity in Virginia, outbreak testing, and visitation.

Regarding visitation, DSS encourages facilities to reevaluate their visitation plans and consider the following CDC recommendations: 

• Send letters or emails to families and post signs at entrances reminding them of the importance of getting vaccinated, recommendations for source control and physical distancing and any other facility instructions related to visitation, including not to visit if they have any of the following:
  • a positive viral test for SARS-CoV-2,
  • symptoms of COVID-19, or
  • if they currently meet criteria for quarantine.
• Further information on visitation should be reviewed and adapted to your facility as necessary.

VHCA-VCAL encourages members to read the update in its entirety.