As fall approaches, so does the return of cold and flu season—a time when communicable diseases spread more readily. In long-term care and home care settings, the stakes are even higher. The individuals we serve often have compromised immune systems, chronic health conditions, or heightened vulnerability to serious illness, making infection prevention and control absolutely critical.

Timely vaccinations and consistent infection control practices protect everyone in our care environment and help prevent workplace transmission of infectious diseases.

Why infection prevention and control matters

Effective infection control helps:

• Protect yourself and your coworkers from preventable illness
• Safeguard residents and clients who depend on our care
• Reduce outbreaks and complications for immunocompromised individuals
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements

Your role in preventing disease transmission

You can help stop the spread of communicable diseases by:

• Following proper hand hygiene – wash hands frequently with soap and water, and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Practicing respiratory etiquette – cover coughs and sneezes appropriately
• Handling sharps safely – follow safe work procedures for proper use and disposal
• Getting vaccinated and maintaining current vaccination records
• Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces and objects regularly
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper donning and doffing techniques
• Self-monitoring for symptoms and staying home when sick
• Following workplace protocols including Safe Work Procedures and Exposure Control Plans
• Reporting exposure incidents to supervisors immediately
• Participating in education and training sessions
• Maintaining a clean work environment at all times

The power of vaccination

Vaccines, including the annual flu shot, help your immune system recognize and fight off viruses before they can cause serious harm. When you get vaccinated, you create a protective barrier that benefits everyone—reducing your own risk of illness and complications while helping prevent the spread of infections to residents, clients, coworkers, and your loved ones.

Remember: Prevention is always better than treatment. Your commitment to these practices makes a real difference in the health and safety of our entire care community.

Education for infection prevention and control