Physical hygiene measures are highly effective in preventing the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), according to a meta-analysis of six case-control studies. However, an updated systematic review/judged most of the randomised and cluster-randomised controlled trials to be of poor quality. The following physical methods are effective: handwashing more than 10 times a day; wearing masks, gloves and gowns; and isolation of potentially infected patients. There is only limited evidence that expensive [US/NIOSH standard] N95 masks are more effective than simple surgical masks - though they may be useful in high-risk situations. There is inconclusive evidence on the benefit of adding virucidals/antiseptics to normal handwashing. The greatest benefit is achieved through hygiene measures aimed at young children and household members of index cases.
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