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COVID-19
Latest Information & changes...
On 7th July, and in line with ‘COVID-19 Response: Living with COVID-19’, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) published updated infection prevention and control (IPC) guidance for adult social care, replacing the current suite of COVID-19 guidance.
PPE GUIDE FOR ADULT SOCIAL CARE
COVID-19 PPE guide for adult social care services and settings (text only version) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
On 15th December, the Government announced changes to masking guidance across adult social care, moving towards a risk-based use of masks. Full details of these changes can be found in the COVID-19 supplement to the infection prevention and control resource for adult social care, as well as a letter to the sector from the Director of Adult Social Care delivery in the Department of Health and Social Care.
This updated guidance details the risk-based approach of using face masks, which replaces previous guidance that stated face masks should be worn at all times across adult social care.
Decisions on mask use should balance the risk of infections spreading with any risks or benefits that arise from the use of masks. Services should follow updated guidance and continue to engage with staff and people receiving care to inform decisions on when masks should be used. As set out in guidance, and underpinned by a risk assessment, masks should continue to be used by:
A staff member caring for a person suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19
A staff member who is a household or overnight contact of someone with COVID-19
Staff and visitors if there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in the setting
A staff member if the person receiving care prefers a carer to wear a mask
The use of masks may also be considered if caring for someone who is particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes from COVID-19 on an individual basis and in accordance with their preferences. Mask wearing may also be considered when an event or gathering is assessed as having a particularly high risk of transmission.
We hope that these changes will empower providers and staff to make decisions on appropriate measures and help ensure that ongoing IPC measures are proportionate.
Vaccines remain the best way to protect people from COVID-19 and flu. Staff and people receiving care are encouraged to get their COVID-19 vaccinations, including boosters as soon as they are eligible. Social care workers and eligible care recipients can book their appointments for both a Covid Autumn booster and flu vaccine via the National Booking Service or by contacting their GP.
Staff, service users and visitors are encouraged to continue to follow infection, prevention and control guidance. This, alongside vaccination and other important measures such as therapeutics and targeted testing will continue to protect people across adult social care.
Accessing free coronavirus (COVID-19) lateral flow tests for those who work in adult social care settings
You might be eligible to order a free pack of rapid lateral flow tests to be sent to your home.
Please click below and use this service to:
check if you’re eligible to order rapid lateral flow tests
order rapid lateral flow tests to be sent to your home if you’re eligible
WHAT TO DO IF YOU OR A PERSON SUPPORTED SHOWS SYMPTOMS
It is important to report immediately if you or any of the people we support show any symptoms of COVID-19. You need to contact the Team Leader or On-Call person – contact information can be found in the communication book in the property.
Remember....the main COVID-19 symptoms you need to look for are:
signs of a high temperature (37.8°C or above)
a cough,
a change in sense of taste or smell,
It may be harder to recognise symptoms in people with dementia, autistic people, and people with learning disabilities who may not be able to communicate verbally or easily express the symptoms they are experiencing. You also need to look for softer signs such as:
being short of breath
being not as alert
having a new onset of confusion
being off food
having reduced fluid intake, diarrhoea or vomiting.
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