CDC Has Video for Infections, and Guidance on ‘Pink Eye’

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a new video for nursing home infection prevention, and separately, new guidance telling healthcare personnel to stay home if they have symptoms of “pink eye.”

On infections, the text accompanying the video said if you live in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or other long-term care facility, you have a higher risk of getting an infection.

CDC said there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Tell your healthcare provider if you think you have an infection or if your infection is getting worse.

• Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects, such as diarrhea.

• Keep your hands clean. Remind staff and visitors to keep their hands clean.

• Get vaccinated against flu and other infections to avoid complications.

The guidance for pink eye noted the signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis, which can include:

• Pink or red color in the white of the eye(s)

• Swelling of the conjunctiva (the thin layer that lines the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelid) and/or eyelids

• Increased tear production

• Feeling like a foreign body is in the eye(s) or an urge to rub the eye(s)

• Itching, irritation, and/or burning

• Discharge (pus or mucus)

• Crusting of eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning

• Contact lenses that feel uncomfortable and/or do not stay in place on the eye

Comments or questions? Contact Patrick Connole at pconnole@parkplacelive.com.