We have complied a roundup of information and resources related to the coronavirus to help members prevent the spread of the disease, also referred to as COVID-19. New information includes a clinician’s letter from State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver and an AHCA update on personal protective equipment strategies. Additional resources include a World Health Organization communications package for facilities and CDC resources. No cases have been confirmed in Virginia at this time.

The coronavirus is spread from person-to-person through droplets suspended in the air, very similar to how influenza spreads. During this time, centers should review their infection prevention and control policies and procedures and to evaluate the proper use of hand hygiene, precautions and other key practices in the center. 

VDH Resources

• State Health Commissioner Clinician Letter: Update on COVID-19 (February 27, 2020)
• COVID-19 Situational Awareness Webinar: VDH, the Virginia Healthcare Emergency Management Program and the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association are hosting a webinar for healthcare stakeholders on March 4 from 12:00 – 12:30 pm.
• VDH Novel Coronavirus webpage
  

AHCA/NCAL Update

• Preparing for COVID-19 and Personal Protective Equipment Strategies
  

World Health Organization Resources

• WHO COVID-19 Risk Communication Package for Health Care Facilities

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Resources

• CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Situation Summary
• CDC in Action: Preparing Communities for Potential Spread of COVID-19
• CDC Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Patients with Confirmed Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) or Persons Under Investigation for COVID-19 in Healthcare Settings
• CDC Printable Fact Sheets for the Public
  

CMS Resources

• Information for Healthcare Facilities Concerning 2019 Novel Coronavirus Illness  (2019-nCoV)