The California Department of Health has issued a new All Facilities Letter for healthcare facilities, focusing on the prevention, detection, and control of influenza in long-term care facilities. The letter highlights significant changes from previous recommendations, including a re-written infection control section, a sample declination form for employees who decline flu vaccinations, and a warning against the use of adamantanes due to resistance in influenza viruses. The letter emphasizes the importance of vaccinating healthcare workers against influenza and encourages facilities to maximize immunization rates. The letter also mentions the upcoming mandatory vaccination requirements for acute care hospitals beginning in July 2007 and potential regulations for all healthcare facilities. The letter urges facilities to review the recommendations, report any outbreaks of respiratory illness, and contact the Department of Health Services for assistance in outbreak control and vaccine procurement.

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