CDPH reminds GACHs and SNFs of requirements to report outbreaks and unusual infectious disease occurrences to the local public health officer and CDPH and provides definitions of an outbreak and unusual infectious diseases and updated examples of reportable incidents.

CDPH is aware that SNFs are interpreting these requirements differently. It revises examples of incidents that should be reported relative to the usual frequency of the MDRO in the same facility, region or LHJ. Consult with the LHJ for information about the local epidemiology of a given MDRO to determine whether incidents should be reported. It refers to recommended pathogen-specific outbreak reporting thresholds, definitions and other resources provided by CORHA, where available.

Unusual Occurrences - Occurrences such as epidemic outbreaks, poisonings, fires, major accidents, death from unnatural causes or other catastrophes and unusual occurrences which threaten the welfare, safety or health of patients, personnel or visitors.

Outbreaks of any condition should generally be reported regardless of the results of genetic-relatedness testing, if performed. If in doubt, report.

Upon receipt of a report of an outbreak or unusual occurrence, the LHD recommends control actions and may conduct an epidemiologic investigation. The L&C DO makes a determination on regulatory follow-up action, which may include an onsite survey. The CDPH HAI Program is available to local public health authorities and L&C for consultation on infection control and containment measures.

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The California Department of Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter (AFL) reminding healthcare facilities, including nursing homes, of the requirements to report outbreaks and unusual infectious disease occurrences to local public health officers and the department. The letter updates definitions and examples of reportable incidents and advises facilities to consult with their local health jurisdiction for information on the epidemiology of multidrug-resistant organisms. Examples of reportable incidents include single cases of colonization or infection with certain organisms, outbreaks or increased incidence of any infectious agent, and facility outbreaks of COVID-19, influenza, or other respiratory viral pathogens. Non-compliance may result in regulatory follow-up action, including an onsite survey. Facilities should report outbreaks regardless of genetic-relatedness testing results and consult the CDPH Healthcare-Associated Infections Program for guidance on infection control and containment measures.

Clearpol Inc. does not make any guarantees regarding the accuracy of the opinions or summaries provided on our platform. Please use your own judgement.