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Flu Prevention: Break the Chain in Influenza Transmission in Healthcare

Type: Best Practices & Clinical/Pathogen Alert
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As attention continues to be focused on coronavirus, we can’t forget that it’s influenza (flu) season. Rates and hospitalizations are increasing across the United States. Here are some tips to help “break the chain” for both coronavirus & influenza transmission.

Breaking the Chain: Preventing Transmission1,2

  • Receive annual flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine, and boosters as directed by your healthcare provider.
  • Isolate suspected or confirmed patients with influenza or COVID-19 according to the current guidelines; prohibit them from waiting in general waiting rooms.
  • Disinfect high-touch, non-critical environmental surfaces, such as blood pressure cuffs, thermometers, wheelchairs, stethoscopes, tables, and exam tables with an EPA-registered, hospital-grade disinfectant with approved efficacy claims against the influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
  • Practice proper hand hygiene – the most basic element for preventing the transmission of influenza.1
    • Wash hands with soap and water whenever possible.
    • If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
    • Hand sanitizers include alcohol-based wipes and gel hand rubs.3

*Clarivate Data 2021 Q3.
1https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/healthcaresettings.htm#anchor_1620912798609
2https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control-recommendations.html
3https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/faqs.html
4PDI study ER 20/146 V.1 3/2/202
5Food Code Recommendations of the United States Public Health Service Food and Drug Administration, 2017
6Cleaning the screen of your mobile device with a wipe containing alcohol may reduce the lifespan of any anti-fingerprint coating. Please check your
device manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

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