DC Health Issues New Guidance on RSV, Return to Work, and PPE November 11, 2022

DC Health has issued a series of guidance documents reflecting COVID updates and new public health concerns.

Most pressing is a new respiratory viral illness alert issued on November 9. The alert highlights the high levels of flu and RSV being seen in the population, similar to the experience of many DC physicians. The department notes that flu season began four weeks earlier this year than usual, resulting in higher numbers of severe cases. The alert seen here offers guidance and information for DC physicians and their offices.

In addition, DC Health updated their healthcare personnel monitoring, restriction, and return to work guidance on November 4. This guidance is for employers of health care personnel (HCP) and includes best practice recommendations related to masking, eye protection, and HCP exposure, monitoring, and work restrictions for COVID-19. Except for current mandates in effect under a Mayor’s Order or other existing local or federal regulation, any definitive action statements made in this guidance (e.g., “must”) are considered essential best practice recommendations to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. HCP include all paid and unpaid persons serving in health care settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials. You can see the newest guidance here.

You can also view the most recent guidance on PPE here (issued 10/25) and guidance for close contacts with a COVID-19 positive person here (issued 10/25)