WNSM - Preparing for the Upcoming Sick Season

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Preparing for the Upcoming Sick Season

9/8/2023

Preparing for the Upcoming Sick Season - the Big 3: Flu, COVID-19 & RSV

Serving Safely is what our customers expect and deserve when working with us and we are approaching that time of year when we start to see an increase in illnesses, including; Influenza (Flu), COVID-19 and RSV. In the last few weeks, we have already seen an increase in hospitalizations across the country by more than 20% and most are related to the new COVID-19 subvariant EG.5. With this in mind, below are some important reminders and information to prepare and protect you and your clients this fall and winter.

Infection Control & Serving Safely Procedures

Although the Public Health Emergency has ended related to COVID-19, the virus is still very active across the country and we must continue to follow our Infection Control and Serving Safely procedures at all locations and when caring for clients as follows:

Wash hands frequently
Disinfect surfaces regularly
Use PPE including masks as needed
Monitor and follow local guidance for your area

Be respectful of our clients, referral sources and your co-workers' preferences regarding mask-wearing, social distancing and other efforts to reduce the spread of infection. We should do our part to minimize the spread of the flu, COVID-19, RSV and any other potential infectious diseases, especially during the time of year when these illnesses are most prevalent.

PLEASE REMEMBER

If you have a fever, stay home until it has been gone for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication. Please also notify your manager if you tested positive for or have been diagnosed by a medical professional with Flu, COVID-19 or RSV so that they can take the appropriate precautions.

Complete the NSM Flu Vaccine Acceptance/Waiver Form by 12/15/23

While NSM does not require you to get an Influenza (flu) vaccine, it is highly recommended given the medically fragile population we serve.
Whether you get the vaccine or not, we do require that you complete the Flu Vaccine Acceptance/Waiver form each year.

Click here to complete the required form by December 15th, 2023.

COVID-19 Vaccination & Helpful Information to Limit Exposure

NSM does not require you to get a COVID-19 booster vaccine, but if you choose to get one, they are expected to be available in the coming weeks.

If you think you have COVID-19, showing signs and symptoms related to COVID-19 or know that you have been exposed to someone recently diagnosed with COVID-19 please take the necessary steps to limit exposure to others.

The CDC has a new isolation and exposure calculator. Click here to learn more.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) & Guidance to Prevent Spread

Respiratory Syncytial Virus, better known as RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms.
Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious for some, including our medically fragile clients, and it’s on the rise this season.

CDC guidance on how to prevent the spread of RSV can be found here.

Thank you for doing your part to keep our clients, yourself and your family members safe and healthy. If you have any questions, please contact Compliance@nsm-seating.com.