Infection Prevention News 2026June19

Kierstin Reed • June 18, 2026

COVID “Up to Date” Definition Will Not Change.

 LeadingAge has learned from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) that the definition of “up to date” for COVID vaccination will remain the same for Quarter 2 reporting to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN), which begins on Monday, March 30. The current definition, which expires on March 29, states that individuals aged 65 years and older are “up to date” with two doses of the 2025/2026 vaccine (or at least one dose in the past six months) and individuals under the age of 65 are “up to date” with one dose of the 2025/2026 vaccine. CDC intends to update the “key terms” document by early April. Recall that although respiratory illness season generally ends on March 31, nursing home providers are required to continue weekly reporting of respiratory illness data and monthly reporting of COVID vaccination status of healthcare personnel through NHSN.

Flu Vaccination Status Reporting Due May 15.

With the general end of respiratory illness season approaching on March 31, nursing home providers are reminded of requirements to report flu vaccination status of healthcare personnel. Nursing homes must submit one report through the Healthcare Personnel Safety Component of the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) by May 15 that reports the flu vaccination status of all healthcare personnel working in the nursing home at least one day during respiratory illness season (October 1 – March 31). This requirement is part of the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Quality Reporting Program (QRP) and nursing homes that fail to submit data will see impact on the Annual Payment Update (APU).

By Kierstin Reed June 18, 2026
**Thank You for Attending!** LeadingAge RAD for PRAC Peer-Sharing and Policy Discussion.
By Kierstin Reed June 18, 2026
CMS Issues Final Rule on Accrediting Organizations.
By Kierstin Reed June 18, 2026
HHS OIG Focus: Duplicate VA and Medicaid Payments.
By Kierstin Reed June 18, 2026
DHS Proposes Further Work Authorization Restrictions.
By Kierstin Reed June 18, 2026
Don’t miss our next Assisted Living Survey Session
By Kierstin Reed June 18, 2026
Stability in Social Services: How prepared are you for social services turnover? Regulations require that nursing homes under 120 beds have someone meeting the criteria as their Social Services Designee. Nebraska allows those in this position to meet the criteria by taking a course of at least 35 hours in the skills needed. We have you covered! Sign up a team member today for our in-person course taking place August 3-7. Our week-long Social Services Designee Training is designed specifically for professionals like you, providing the knowledge, confidence, and practical tools needed to succeed in this essential position. Whether you’re new to the role or looking to strengthen your expertise, this course offers a comprehensive foundation to help you navigate the unique challenges of serving residents in a long-term care setting. Throughout the training, you’ll gain a clear understanding of your roles and responsibilities as a Social Services Director, learn how to effectively collaborate with your interdisciplinary team, and build skills in developing and implementing meaningful, person-centered care plans. We’ll also dive into strategies for addressing residents’ emotional, psychological, and social needs, while helping you confidently interpret and apply state and federal regulations. Designed for facilities under 120 beds, this course meets required training standards and equips you to make a lasting impact for both your residents and your organization.
By Kierstin Reed June 18, 2026
Would you like to meet with candidates?
By Kierstin Reed June 11, 2026
June 5 Update: STILL DELAYED - HUD-Required Immigration Eligibility Reverification in Multifamily Housing.
By Kierstin Reed June 11, 2026
GAO releases report on hospice payment.
By Kierstin Reed June 11, 2026
LeadingAge Submits Comments on Medicaid HCBS QMs.
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