Managing Common Outbreaks

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Introduction to Communicable Diseases

Let's prepare for the worst-case scenario. In this short introduction lesson, we will familiarize you with the sciences behind what happens during outbreaks.

Lesson Objectives In this lesson, you will learn... What causes communicable diseases, How communicable diseases spread, What chain of infection are, and The different factors for a chain of infection to happen.

What are communicable diseases? In a nutshell, these are diseases that can be transmitted from one person to another. ## Hence, "communicable". ## They are caused by ** pathogens**, such as bacteria, virus, and pathogens from parasites. ## These pathogens invade bodies and either... ## multiply ## or release toxins ## ...until the body becomes incapable of functioning normally.

Pathogens

Pathogens are the infective agents responsible for infectious diseases. Some examples of these are parasites, bacteria, and viruses.

Bacteria are single-celled organisms that can be found anywhere, even in our own bodies.

A virus is a bundle of genetic code, (either DNA or RNA), coated in protein. They can be found anywhere, and are more abundant than bacteria by a ratio of 10:1.

Parasitism is a kind of relationship between two organisms wherein an organism, a parasite, lives inside another organism, a host (ex. humans).

Managing Bed Bug Outbreaks

You arrive at work to find out that the facility may be in the midst of a crisis... a bed bug crisis.

Some guests scampered out of their rooms, demanding for refund and compensation for being bitten by bed bugs. They claim they woke up with red, itchy areas all over their body.

The safety of the other guests is now in your hands. An investigation was immediately launched and you are one of the people in charge. Allow us to guide you on what to look out for and what to do in this case.

Lesson Objectives In this lesson, you will... Learn how to spot the signs of a bed bug infestation, Contain the infestation through this interactive lesson, Learn how to prepare a room for bug treatment, Exterminate the bed bugs through a simulation, and Know how to properly monitor the areas while it recovers from the infestation.

You're now inspecting the complaining guest's room. How do you confirm that there's an infestation? You may choose multiple answers.

How can we manage bed bug outbreaks? Contain the infestation: clear hiding spaces and collect infested materials. 2. ## Prepare the area for bed bug treatment. 3. ## Exterminate the bed bugs. 4. ## Monitor the affected areas. ## For easy recall, let's call this the CPEM method.

Managing Gastroenteritis Outbreaks

Welcome back. Congratulations on handling the bed bug outbreak! For your next challenge, we will teach you how to handle a gastroenteritis outbreak.

Cleaning up during gastro outbreaks can be especially dangerous for you. This one's a bit tougher than the last outbreak. You are not only responsible for the lives of other people, but you must also take good care of yourself! But worry not, we'll help you prepare for it.

Lesson Objectives In this lesson, you will... Master the chain of infection of gastroenteritis outbreaks, Spot the symptoms of a potential gastro outbreak, Familiarize the steps in managing a gastro outbreak, especially by Distinguishing the importance of cleaning from disinfecting.

some facts on Gastro Outbreaks Gastroenteritis has many names. You may recognize them in the names... ## tummy bug ## stomach or intestinal flu ## food poisoning, or ## traveler's diarrhea. ## Gastro outbreaks can be caused by any type of pathogen, but they are most commonly viral. ## This is especially the case for crowds of people who are infected in the same time and place.

How can we manage a gastro outbreak? Know when to recognize an outbreak. What are the signs of a potential outbreak? 2. ## Wear the appropriate protective gear. What are the components of your personal protective equipment (PPE)? 3. ## Clean the affected surfaces. How do you prepare an area for disinfection? What is the difference between cleaning and disinfecting? 4. ## Disinfect the affected surfaces. What are the chemicals needed for disinfection and how do you handle these chemicals? # For better recall, remember the acronym RPCD.

How can we disinfect effectively? Before disinfecting, make sure that the surface is clear of any visible dirt. ## Disinfectants contain either... quarternary ammonium chloride (QUATS), peroxide (hydrogen peroxide-based), or hypochlorite (bleach-based). Make sure that the disinfectant you're using is tested and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2. ## Dilute the disinfectant based on the brand's specifications. 3. ## Upon applying the disinfectant, it must stay for its recommended dwell time. Dwell time is the amount of time that the disinfectant must remain wet to kill the pathogens in the surfaces.

A short lesson on Linen Management

This short lesson will... Show you how to handle soiled linen, Enumerate the types of soiled linen, Demonstrate the rolling technique in packing soiled linen, Teach you the standard laundering procedure for washable items, and Guide you on how to clean unwashable items.

The four steps to Linen Management Handling soiled linen. Soiled linen must always be handled with protective equipment. When handling soiled linen, you need... Disposable gloves Face mask Apron As much as possible, handle them with minimal movement to avoid contaminating surrounding areas. 2. ## Packing soiled linen. Only fill the laundry bag with used linen up to** two-thirds** of the laundry bag's size. 3. ## Washing the soiled linen. Standard laundering procedures consist of: pre-washing, main washing, and rinsing. Note that different procedures are required for unwashable items. 4. ## Storing the clean linens. Clean linens must be stored in a clean, enclosed space-- preferably a cupboard.

Washing the Linens Standard Laundering Procedures for Washable Items

Pre Wash Put the soiled linen in the laundry tub and set the machine to "pre-wash". Make sure the water is warm. By doing this, the dirt and debris on the linen loosen up before the main wash.

Main Wash Hot Temperature Wash With the water at 71°C, wash the linens for a maximum of 3 minutes. or With the water at 65°C, wash the linens for a maximum of 10 minutes. This is the best method for washing clothes and linen with heavy soiling.

Main Wash Cold Temperature Wash With the water at 20°C, wash the linen with bleach. Dilute the bleach according to the brand's specification for linens. This is the best method for washing linen with little to no soiling.

Rinsing Rinse the washed clothes and linen free of detergent and other additives using water.

A short lesson on Ventilation

In this short lesson, you will... Learn the importance of ventilation, Ascertain the different types of ventilation present in a room, Get a headstart on what potential problems you may encounter with a room's ventilation, Master how to clean dirty air filters and moisture buildup, and Know how you can further improve the present ventilation in a room.

Mold Removal Guide

Inhaling spores is hazardous. If you are dealing with molds that are** larger than 3x3 square feet**, it is best to call a professional. -- One short bond paper is almost a foot long. Imagine three standing short bond papers stacked on top of each other for comparison.

How can we maintain ** good ventilation** in our rooms? Open the doors and windows for better outdoor airflow. 2. ## Use fans to** improve natural ventilation** while cleaning. 3. ## Regularly check ventilation systems for bacterial growth to ensure the air's cleanliness. 4. ## Regularly inspect if mechanical ventilation systems are functioning properly. 5. ## Maintain the cleanliness and functionality of exhaust fan ventilation. 6. ## Replace air filters when needed.