Viruses mutate. That is one reason elders and others at risk are encouraged to get annual flu shots. So, what about COVID-19 the SARS-CoV-2 virus?
The California Public Health Department (CPHD) has said the SARS-CoV-2 virus is “constantly mutating,” and it is not likely the virus is gone.
In February, DSS released Provider Information Notice 23-02-ASC to update licensees on testing, screening, precautions, etc. Regrettably, the situation, according to the PIN, will “continue to be reassessed” by CDPH.
Facilities should always screen new admissions and existing residents for COVID-19 symptoms—fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle and/or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell and sore throat. However, facilities no longer have to do daily temperature checks. DSS requires facilities to monitor staff for symptoms and post signs for staff to “self-screen” for COVID-19 symptoms.
Licensees do not have to conduct routine diagnostic screening tests on asymptomatic staff, test new staff nor test staff returning from leave or vacation, etc. New residents should be screened and tested prior to admission, but testing residents returning from a hospitalization or an outing is not needed for asymptomatic residents.
CDPH is still requiring staff to wear masks when indoors, but residents do not. (N95 masks are not required nor is the “fitting” of those masks). Staff may wear a mask when going with residents to appointments or outings. Residents may consider wearing a mask when inside the facility or when leaving the facility. For individuals who have not been vaccinated they should always wear masks both indoor and when outdoors and around others.