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COVID-19 & Respiratory Infection Guidance for Carers

At edyn.care, we prioritise the health, safety, and wellbeing of everyone we work with - our carers, clients, care recipients, and office team. This policy explains how we manage COVID-19 risks while maintaining exceptional care services.

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Written by Oliver Ross
Updated over 3 weeks ago

Why this guidance exists

Although COVID-19 is now managed like other respiratory illnesses (such as flu), it can still pose risks for some care recipients.

This guidance explains how carers should prevent infection, recognise symptoms and respond appropriately while working in live-in care placements.

Our goal is to keep you, your client and their household safe while maintaining normal daily life wherever possible.

Everyday Infection Prevention

Carers should follow the same infection control standards used for all illnesses.

This includes:

• Washing hands regularly with soap and water
• Using hand sanitiser when appropriate
• Cleaning high-touch surfaces regularly (e.g. door handles, light switches)
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Avoiding touching your face unnecessarily

Always follow the Infection Control Policy for full guidance.

Using PPE

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should be used when there is a risk of exposure to infection.

Examples include:

• Gloves and apron for personal care
• PPE when handling body fluids
• Masks if there are respiratory symptoms present

All carers complete the Safe Use of PPE Competency annually.

If You Develop Symptoms

If you feel unwell or develop symptoms such as:

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• loss of taste or smell
• flu-like symptoms

You must:

  1. Inform the office as soon as possible

  2. Avoid close contact where possible

  3. Follow guidance from your Care Manager

  4. Arrange replacement cover if required

Your safety and the client's safety always come first.

If Your Client Develops Symptoms

If a care recipient becomes unwell:

  1. Inform your Care Manager immediately

  2. Follow infection control precautions

  3. Monitor the client’s symptoms

  4. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen

Your Care Manager may update the care plan or risk assessment depending on the situation.

Visitors or Illness in the Household

Because live-in carers share the client’s home environment, infection risks can sometimes come from visitors or family members.

If someone in the household appears unwell:

• Inform your Care Manager
• Follow infection control guidance
• Continue monitoring the situation

Testing

Routine COVID testing is not normally required.

Testing may be recommended if:

• you have symptoms
• your client has symptoms
• there is a suspected spread of infection

Your Care Manager will advise if testing is appropriate.

Vaccination

Vaccination can help reduce the risk of severe illness.

Vaccination is encouraged but not mandatory for carers.

If you would like information about accessing vaccines, the office can help.

When to Contact the Office Immediately

You must contact the office if:

• you develop symptoms
• your client develops symptoms
• illness spreads in the household
• you feel unsure about infection risks

We are here to support you and ensure safe care for everyone.

Key Reminder

Good infection control is part of professional care practice.

Simple actions like handwashing, cleaning and reporting concerns early help protect vulnerable clients and ensure safe care delivery.

If you ever feel unsure, contact your Care Manager or the on-call team for guidance.

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