Planning for the Next Superbug
Because the COVID-19 pandemic made an impact across the world, we learned some valuable lessons along the way. Most importantly, planning should begin NOW for the next superbug. There are three levels of disease spread to stay alert for:
Not good: An outbreak is when people within a community get sick with the same illness.
Bad: An epidemic is when an illness spreads between many people very fast.
Worst: A pandemic is when an illness affects people worldwide and may have a higher death rate.
Train on superbug policies
Staying aware of current global health issues will help you plan and prepare for the next superbug. If there are not already clear policies about operations during an infection control crisis, take the time NOW to develop them. Maybe you learned during COVID-19 that your policy needs to be updated – NOW is the time. Be sure to include guidelines about reporting to work or staying home when an employee is sick, and plan to screen employees for symptoms in the event of a local outbreak.
Additionally, you should arm your staff with training on the superbug, review related policies, and answer any questions they may have in advance. As an illness spreads, increasing security measures and limiting access to your facility is vital. Make sure your facility is prepared to contain the spread of illness by training on superbug policies.
Disinfect high-touch surfaces
Training on this topic should be ongoing as even a community outbreak of the flu can wreak havoc on jail operations. Simple topics such as covering your cough, staying home when running a fever, and how to correctly disinfect high-touch surfaces can help to control a jail outbreak.
If you hear about a superbug or an outbreak in another country, be proactive. Find out exactly what it is, how it spreads, and who is most likely to be affected. Learn about the signs and symptoms and keep an eye on your incoming jail population. People travel the globe freely every day, so don’t assume it will not come into your jail. The challenge with today’s superbugs (think COVID-19 vs. influenza vs. seasonal allergies), is that their symptoms are similar. Support a healthier facility environment by disinfecting high-touch surfaces.
Implement progressive lockdown
Being prepared is the key to handling a crisis during an outbreak in your jail – whether that be a staffing crisis, having enough supplies, or even having access to medication and vaccines. This preparation starts with staying alert to potential threats. There are several ways you can do this:
Stay connected to professional organizations
Subscribe to mailing lists or text alerts from reputable sources
Focus some attention on what is happening around the world
It is recommended to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a source of truth about the status and spread of superbugs. Organizations such as the American Jail Association (AJA) or the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare (NCCHC) might also be good options. Follow reputable organizations to stay alert to potential threats.
The following list provides recommendations for a progressive lockdown process. Various locations are followed by the actions to take when you hear of an outbreak there.
In another country
Consider doing research
Learn about what it is, how it spreads, and the symptoms
In the USA
Stock up on personal protective equipment (PPE) such as disposable gloves, masks, and other PPE needed
Consider finding multiple procurement sources for things that may become unavailable as needs increase
Provide training to staff on signs and symptoms of infection
Monitor recommendations from the CDC
In your state
Restrict in-person meetings – go virtual if you can
Plan for quarantining detainees while avoiding single celling if possible
Consider proactively screening for symptoms – detainees and staff
Refresh training to staff on signs and symptoms of infection
Monitor recommendations from state health department
In your community
Screen individuals upon entry for symptoms
Partner with your county health department to stay in the know
Work with local law enforcement officials and judges to limit bookings to more serious crimes
Allow only virtual meetings with lawyers and other outside visitors
Use options (when available) for virtual court attendance
Designate an area in the jail to house patients who test positive
Consider using tele-health services to address a potential increase in mental health issues related to isolation and anxiety
There is no value you can place on being prepared well before a health crisis happens. Do the right thing - implement progressive lockdown.
Outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics—what you need to know. (2022). APIC. https://apic.org/monthly_alerts/outbreaks-epidemics-and-pandemics-what-you-need-to-know/
If you would like additional information, please email training@sparktraining.us.
All materials have been prepared for general information purposes only. The information presented should be treated as guidelines, not rules. The information presented is not intended to establish a standard of medical care and is not a substitute for common sense. The information presented is not legal advice, is not to be acted on as such, may not be current, and is subject to change without notice. Each situation should be addressed on a case-by-case basis. WHEN IN DOUBT, SEND THEM OUT. ®