CDC Update on COVID Transmission

CDC Update on COVID Transmission

CDC updated guidance Monday on the transmission of COVID-19 to include airborne transmission. Airborne transmission means virus hangs in the air for minutes or even hours and can infect people further than 6 feet away or after the infected person has left the area. Evidence indicates that when airborne transmission has occurred, it has been in enclosed spaces with inadequate ventilation. Airborne transmission is uncommon; close contact is still the most common source of spread of COVID-19. Nonetheless, this new information highlights the importance of adequate ventilation and source control (masking of nose and mouth, social distancing). Here are 4 things providers can do:

  • Stress the importance of masks and social distancing with residents/patients, staff, and visitors.
  • Talk with your building engineer about ventilation.
  • Bring in fresh outdoor air as much as possible.
  • Allow ample time before entering spaces for cleaning and turn-over. Check out this CDC guide on air changes / hour for airborne contaminant removal.

 

Questions?

Contact:

Laura Hofmann, MSN, RN – Director of Clinical and Nursing Facility Regulatory Services
c: 425-231-4804