Where to get the correct information on coronavirus for your residents

Coronavirus is most dangerous to older people and particularly those over 80. This group has a 14.8% death rate according to a large epidemiological study of 72,000 cases in China. Now is the time to review your infectious diseases policy and procedure and consider whether a specific COVID-19 policy and procedure is required. Here are some steps to start the process:

1. Regularly review the advice of the Health Authority and check the advice for staff. A good place to start is with this Health Department web site and fact sheets for you and your staff.
2. Develop a notification program to residents – which may change as the advice changes. It can include the most current advice from Health Agencies, personal hygiene standards within common areas, information on self-isolation requirements
3. Develop a similar communication strategy, on the job training, and reinforcement activities for all staff. You may also consider a mandatory notification of symptoms/travel to a nominated senior executive.
4. Review the requirement for visitors/contractors to the site, long and short term, and the need for them to acknowledge and adhere to the guidelines set out for residents and staff.

Here are other COVID-19 resources

• Health Department – coronavirus information and resources 
• BOMA International – coronavirus resources 
• World Health Organisation – coping with stress during coronavirus outbreak