Fall is a time for change. The leaves turn from green to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The air turns cooler and crispier. And, unfortunately, the risk of contracting COVID and influenza increases as people spend more time indoors. It's important to take precautions against these illnesses, especially for seniors living in senior living communities.

Here are a few tips for residents as they prepare for COVID and influenza this fall:

1. Get vaccinated. Make sure all residents are up-to-date on their vaccinations, especially against the flu.
2. Keep common areas clean. Wipe down shared surfaces regularly, and make sure to disinfect any high-traffic areas.
3. Encourage handwashing. Encourage residents to wash their hands regularly and often, especially before eating or touching their face.
4. Stay warm and dry. Make sure residents are dressing appropriately for the weather and keep common areas well-heated and dry.
5. Promote good health habits. Encourage residents to eat healthy foods, get regular exercise, and get plenty of sleep.

There are some additional steps that your staff can do to prepare your community for COVID and influenza this season too such as:

1. Encourage your associates to stay home if they feel sick.
2. Make sure all staff are up-to-date on the latest recommendations for preventing and managing these illnesses. This includes knowing how to properly disinfect common areas and handling any suspected cases.
3. Develop a plan for the staff to educate residents and their families about COVID and influenza, including what symptoms to look for and how to stay safe and healthy.
4. Stock up on supplies like hand sanitizer, tissues, and disinfectant wipes, and make sure they are easily accessible to residents and staff.
5. Make sure to encourage staff to get vaccinated/boosted against both COVID and influenza if they are eligible.
6. Stay alert and keep tabs on any potential outbreaks in your community or in the surrounding area. If necessary, take appropriate steps to protect residents from exposure.

By preparing ahead of time, your community can help ensure that everyone stays healthy during the fall and winter season. Argentum will continue to provide news, information, and resources to help you stay ahead of the curve and properly prevent infection and control outbreaks.