What should be done for residents who test positive for a viral respiratory infection?

Administering antiviral treatment and chemoprophylaxis for non-ill residents is a critical step in managing outbreaks of viral respiratory infections in nursing homes. This approach helps reduce the severity and duration of illness in infected residents while also protecting those who are not yet ill.

Antiviral medications can effectively decrease viral replication, leading to quicker recovery times and reduced transmission rates. Chemoprophylaxis, or providing preventative treatment to non-ill residents, is especially important in communal living settings like nursing homes, where the close quarters can facilitate the spread of infections. By using these strategies, the healthcare team can help maintain the health of both affected and unaffected residents, thus minimizing the risk of an outbreak within the facility.

The other options do not effectively address the situation: indefinite quarantine may lead to unnecessary isolation, self-isolating at home is impractical and poses risks if residents are unable to care for themselves, and merely monitoring symptoms lacks proactive measures to protect other residents and limit the spread of the infection. This comprehensive approach not only prioritizes individual health outcomes but also supports overall public health objectives in the facility.