Like many infectious diseases, influenza — commonly known as the flu — is transmitted via contact with infected individuals, usually in a household or community setting. Healthcare workers, who are frequently referred to by the CDC and other such organizations as healthcare personnel (or “HCP”), are at a particularly high risk for exposure. A healthcare worker who becomes exposed to influenza, who contracts the infection, is subsequently a strong risk factor for spreading it to other, previously uninfected individuals, many of whom — in a healthcare facility — will be particularly vulnerable. Because of this, special influenza precautions are strongly advised for all HCP whose function brings them into close, regular proximity with patients.
Here are five of the most widely recommended influenza precautions:
Administration of Current Influenza Vaccine
It is critically important, for the health of any sick or injured patients who might contract influenza in a healthcare setting, that healthcare workers receive the currently viable influenza vaccine on an annual basis. The vaccine helps the body’s natural immune system to kill the virus quickly and efficiently, by allowing its “messenger cells” to recognize its chemical signature — as though the individual receiving the virus had been sick with that particular strain before. The flu shot is a highly effective tool to prevent the spread of currently active influenza strains.
Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette
Practicing good cough etiquette and respiratory hygiene helps to minimize the spread of the virus in the event of a sudden coughing fit. For example, if you have a cough, try to cough into a tissue or similar item, instead of into your open hand. Afterward, take the used tissue to the nearest waste disposal; do this before completing any other tasks or errands. After having done this, wash your hands immediately using non-antimicrobial soap, or wipe them thoroughly with an alcohol-based hand rub. All healthcare organizations will have a strict list of policies relating to such precautions, which should be strictly followed at all times.
Administrative Control Procedures
Healthcare facility administrators should take steps to minimize potential influenza exposure beyond the practice of respiratory hygiene. Symptomatic influenza patients should be screened and triaged immediately, to help prevent the risk of spreading the infection through the hospital (or other healthcare setting). Patients who contact their healthcare provider on suspicion of having the flu should be counseled over the phone to remain at home, provided their symptoms are manageable and there is little outside risk of complication (due to age, or pre-existing condition, for example).
Monitor Healthcare Personnel Who Become Symptomatic
If a healthcare worker develops a fever or otherwise shows signs of infection, they need to not report to work. If they are already at work, they should immediately don a face mask, and cease all patient-care activities at once. Adherence to respiratory hygiene is crucial at this point. Before leaving work, a healthcare worker who has become ill also needs to inform their immediate superior of their illness, as well as any infection control or occupational health personnel on-site.
Always Keep Standard Patient Care Precautions in Mind
Influenza precautions are in place for a reason, but one of the best ways to manage infection control is to attend to standard patient care protocols at all times. These precautions apply to all interactions with patients, with additional requirements for patients showing signs of respiratory infection. They include the use of proper protective garb including masks, gloves, and gowns, as well as proper hand-washing techniques.
By following basic administrative procedures, adhering to safety guidelines and infectious disease containment procedures, and avoiding unnecessary exposure, all healthcare workers contribute to a safer and more supportive patient-care environment. People with critical injuries, illnesses and other conditions may not be able to survive exposure to influenza, making respiratory hygiene and other such procedures crucial to their survival.
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