Inadequate use of masks or respirators put healthcare workers at risk of 2009 H1N1 infection during the earliest stages of the 2009 pandemic in the U.S., according to a study published in the December issue of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology.
The study, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tracked 63 California healthcare workers who had contact with six of the first eight laboratory-confirmed 2009 H1N1 cases in the U.S. Because these contacts happened before the 2009 H1N1 outbreak had been widely reported, the cases shed light on how well healthcare workers protect themselves before a direct epidemiological threat becomes evident.
Their analysis showed that nine of the healthcare workers became infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus, likely from contact with infected patients. Twenty of the 63 healthcare workers reported that they had worn a mask or respirator at least once when in contact with patients, and no one from that group became infected with 2009 H1N1. Meanwhile, 43 workers reported never using a mask around patients, and all nine infections occurred in workers from this group.
The researchers also reported only 19 percent reported using a mask during every patient encounter. Use was especially low among outpatient workers, who also made up the majority of those who became infected with 2009 H1N1.
The study, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tracked 63 California healthcare workers who had contact with six of the first eight laboratory-confirmed 2009 H1N1 cases in the U.S. Because these contacts happened before the 2009 H1N1 outbreak had been widely reported, the cases shed light on how well healthcare workers protect themselves before a direct epidemiological threat becomes evident.
Sign up for our FREE E-Weekly for more coverage like this sent to your inbox!
Their analysis showed that nine of the healthcare workers became infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus, likely from contact with infected patients. Twenty of the 63 healthcare workers reported that they had worn a mask or respirator at least once when in contact with patients, and no one from that group became infected with 2009 H1N1. Meanwhile, 43 workers reported never using a mask around patients, and all nine infections occurred in workers from this group.
The researchers also reported only 19 percent reported using a mask during every patient encounter. Use was especially low among outpatient workers, who also made up the majority of those who became infected with 2009 H1N1.
Related Articles on Infection Control:
New Test Can Detect, Prevent Spread of Sepsis Earlier
5 Steps to Ensure Quality at GI-Driven ASCs
5 Strategies for Creating a Culture of Sharps Safety
