Fast approaching! I know, it’s 90 degrees outside, and everyone is complaining about the heat, but in just a few weeks, we’ll be dealing with something far worse—viruses circulating through our centers. See, suddenly the heat doesn’t seem so bad, right? The truth is, SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses (along with other respiratory viruses) usually co-circulate during the fall and winter months. We know the drill—fever, chills, cough, malaise, sore throat, and headache. Although the CDC says co-infections of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza are uncommon, preparing for flu season is always a challenge.

The key during flu season is prioritizing residents at higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Those over 65 are at the highest risk of hospitalization or even death from these viruses. Research also shows that the risk of severe COVID-19 increases with multiple medical conditions and for those living in nursing homes. It’s a good time to talk with your medical director about proactive measures, including the potential use of antiviral medications for residents at the highest risk. The CDC offers clinical guidance for outpatients with acute respiratory illness to help determine when early treatment might be needed.

Accurate diagnosis is key, and clinical judgment must be paired with the right testing. There are several influenza tests available, but rapid influenza diagnostic tests can sometimes produce false negatives. If a resident is symptomatic, consider confirming negative results with molecular assays. The FDA has also authorized multiplex tests that can detect both influenza viruses and SARS-CoV-2 at the same time, helping with early diagnosis and treatment decisions.

As always, know what resources are available to you and your residents. The goal is to keep everyone healthy this flu season—residents, staff, and you included. Being proactive and preparing for flu season can make all the difference.

Stay well and stay informed!