This week’s stories are all about forward momentum—whether it’s sharpening our infection prevention practices, preparing for emergencies, or rethinking how we support residents with dementia. From global guidance to practical tools for your community, these updates reflect a growing push to make care smarter, safer, and more resident centered.​

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WHO Releases 2024 Guidelines on Indoor Airborne Risk Assessment

The World Health Organization’s 2024 report, Indoor Airborne Risk Assessment in the Context of SARS-CoV-2, outlines the mechanisms of airborne transmission and introduces a standardized model for assessing indoor infection risks. This framework aims to guide public health strategies and improve ventilation standards to mitigate the spread of airborne pathogens.

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Argentum and Partners Release IPC Guidelines for Assisted Living
The Quality in Assisted Living Collaborative (QALC), including Argentum, ASHA, LeadingAge, NCAL, and NARA, has released comprehensive IPC guidelines tailored for assisted living communities. These guidelines provide practical strategies for risk identification, outbreak prevention, early disease detection, and transmission mitigation.

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CDC Updates LabID Event Reporting Form for LTCFs
The CDC has updated its Laboratory-identified (LabID) Event Reporting Form (57.138) for long-term care facilities. This form standardizes the collection of data on multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) and Clostridioides difficile infections, aiding in surveillance and prevention efforts.​

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ASPR TRACIE Enhances DASH Tool for Disaster Preparedness
The Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) has enhanced its Disaster Available Supplies in Hospitals (DASH) tool. This interactive resource assists healthcare facilities in estimating necessary supplies for various disaster scenarios, including mass casualty incidents and infectious disease emergencies.​

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PharMerica Provides Disaster Preparedness Guidelines for Medication Management
PharMerica has issued guidelines to help long-term care facilities prepare for disasters by ensuring continuous medication availability. Recommendations include maintaining a 5 to 14-day supply of essential medications, securing emergency drug kits, and developing evacuation plans that account for medication management.​

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Innovative Approaches to Dementia Care Highlighted in Provider Magazine
Provider Magazine discusses innovative strategies in dementia care aimed at slowing disease progression. Emphasis is placed on personalized care plans, environmental modifications, and staff training to enhance the quality of life for residents with dementia.​

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These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to strengthen infection control, emergency preparedness, and specialized care within long-term care environments. Implementing these strategies is crucial for improving resident outcomes and ensuring facility resilience.