Common Source Outbreaks in Long-Term Care Facilities Located in Marion County
Administrative and medical staff of nursing homes and assisted-living facilities in Marion County are legally required to report immediately (day or night) common-source outbreaks to Marion County Health Department, (503) 588-5621.
The Marion County Health Department epidemiology and environmental health staff, in conjunction with the State Health Department, will conduct an investigation to help identify the source of the outbreak and take measures to control and contain the spread of the disease.
An important part of the investigation involves identifying the agent causing the disease. Your facility’s nursing director or his or her designee may be asked to collect stool specimens from residents and staff.
To collect stool specimens for outbreaks, use secure, leak proof containers labeled with resident name and outbreak number. Collect specimens of walnut-size whole stool, 3 tbs of diarrheal stool or 3-4 rectal swabs from at least two but no more than six residents within 3-4 days of onset.
Keep fresh stool specimens cold from the time they are produced until they can be transported to the Marion County Health Department, 3180 Center St. NE, Salem, OR 97301, Rm 1101.
Your facility staff may be asked to facilitate/complete investigation report forms to systematically gather data to determine the source of the outbreak. The staff at Marion County Health Department will generate the form to be used.
Facilities are permitted to provide this information to local health under OAR 333-019-0000 to 333-019-0005.