DOH has announced that it is making available infection prevention health care supplies to nursing homes at no charge, including COVID-19 rapid antigen tests, personal protective equipment, fit testing supplies, and Glo Germ supplies. Orders must be submitted by the new deadline of close of business on Feb. 28^th.

Topics to be addressed in the four-part webinar series include risk assessment and plan development, surveillance and NHSN reporting, hand hygiene, standard and transmission-based precautions, occupational and resident health, facility-acquired infections, cleaning and disinfection, and antimicrobial stewardship.

The new guidance for the general public recommends that people with respiratory virus symptoms stay home and away from others until at least 24 hours after both resolution of fever and overall symptoms are getting better. The updated guidance does not apply to nursing homes and other health care settings, where pre-existing COVID-19 guidance continues to apply.

COVID-19 antivirals remain underutilized in high-risk populations.