The CDC and CMS have information, recommendations, and guidance for nursing homes and long-term care facilities. If you provide care at nursing homes or long-term care facilities, check out these resources.

General Information

The CDC provides general information on Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities as it relates to COVID-19.

CMS has created the Nursing Home Resource Center where you can find nursing home resources including COVID-19 public health emergency response information and a series of short podcasts for front-line nursing home staff.

Response to Infection

The CDC provides Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations to Prevent SARS-CoV-2 Spread in Nursing Homes including guidance related to how to handle a New Infection in Healthcare Personnel (HCP) or Resident.

Safe Visiting Practices 

CMS provides recommendations relating to Nursing Home Visitation – COVID-19, including visiting providers. Be sure to check with individual facilities you visit for any updated guidance.

Testing

The CDC’s Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations to Prevent SARS-CoV-2 Spread in Nursing Homes includes information on testing healthcare personnel and evaluating and managing health-care personnel. 

Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic describes recommendations regarding: 1) source control and physical distancing for fully vaccinated HCP; 2) universal use of PPE for HCP; and 3) testing.

CMS provides recommendations for state and local officials regarding nursing home reopening including access to adequate testing. CMS also has guidance for facilities to meet requirements related to testing residents and staff, including individuals providing services under arrangement and volunteers.

Vaccines

The CDC has Information About COVID-19 Vaccines for Long-term Care Facility Residents and Family Members available so you can help protect yourself and the people around you.

On May 11, 2021, CMS posted an Interim Final Rule - COVID-19 Long-Term Care Facility Vaccine Immunization Requirements for Residents and Staff.