As the world continues to struggle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, another public health threat has emerged that facility managers need to be aware of: Candida auris.
Facility managers play a critical role in preventing the spread of Candida auris in their buildings. Commercial cleaners, in particular, can provide important services that help to prevent issues and provide Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved chemicals that kill fungus.
Educate your staff on Candida auris
First and foremost, facility managers need to educate themselves and their staffs on what Candida auris is and how it spreads to identify potential sources of infection and take appropriate preventive steps. Candida auris is a fungal infection that has been identified as a global health threat by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The infection can spread easily in healthcare facilities from patient to patient or through contact with contaminated surfaces or equipment. The infection can cause serious infections and even death.
Use EPA-approved disinfectants
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of Candida auris is through proper cleaning and disinfection protocols. Commercial cleaners can help by using EPA-approved disinfectants that have been shown to be effective against fungi, including Candida auris. It is important to note that not all disinfectants are effective against this particular fungus, so facility managers should ensure that their cleaners are using the right products. EPA List P that shows the approved chemicals that kill the fungus .
Follow proper cleaning and disinfection protocols
In addition to using EPA-approved disinfectants, facility managers should also ensure that their cleaners are following proper cleaning and disinfection protocols. This includes using the right concentration of disinfectant, allowing it to remain on surfaces for the appropriate amount of time, and ensuring that surfaces are thoroughly cleaned before disinfection.
Ensure your staffs are properly trained
Finally, facility managers should ensure that their staffs are properly trained on infection prevention and control measures. This includes hand hygiene, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and recognizing and reporting potential cases of Candida auris.
Services that prevent the spread of this fungus
If you are interested in protecting people in your facility from Candida auris, Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services can provide services that are specifically designed to prevent the spread of this fungus with:
- Application of disinfectants that have been shown to be effective at killing this fungus on surfaces, which can help to prevent its spread.
- Proper cleaning and disinfection protocols to ensure that surfaces are thoroughly cleaned before disinfection. This includes using the right concentration of disinfectant and allowing it to remain on surfaces for the appropriate amount of time.
- Staff properly trained on infection prevention and control measures, including hand hygiene, correct usage of PPE and recognizing and reporting potential cases of Candida auris. This ensures that their staffs are equipped to prevent the spread of this fungus in your facility.
- Customized cleaning plans that specifically address the risks associated with Candida auris in a particular facility. This can include identifying high-risk areas and developing targeted cleaning protocols for those areas.
Candida auris is a serious public health threat that facility managers need to be aware of. Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services can play a critical role in preventing the spread of this fungus, and facility managers should ensure that their cleaners are using EPA-approved disinfectants and following proper cleaning and disinfection protocols. By taking these steps, facility managers can help to prevent the spread of Candida auris in their buildings and protect the health and safety of their occupants.
