Preventing Airborne Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in Hospitals and Nursing Homes

摘要

The first case of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the novel contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019. Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has already been acknowledged by many researchers and countries around the world. There is a need to provide a proper strategy protecting the healthcare workers (HCWs) from airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, it is mandatory to implement effective public health measures for emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19 related to the airborne mode of transmission. Here, we propose some guidelines aimed at setting a benchmark for current and future viral pandemics. Firstly, we suggest the use of evaporative humidifiers along with portable air cleaners and an adequate mechanical ventilation system. The respirators without valves are recommended for HCWs during surgical and other medical procedures. Then, we recommend avoiding the use of aerosolized procedures using nebulizers and advise the use of metered-dose inhalers instead. We also recommend avoiding the use of hydrogen peroxide disinfectants for indoor cleaning. Finally, the UV-C technique should not be used too often; although known to destroy the SARS-CoV-2, it ultimately increases ozone concentrations in indoor settings.