Is respiratory protection appropriate in the Ebola response?

摘要

We write to express our concern about one aspect of the response to the current epidemic of Ebola that has, so far, received little attention, lacks an evidence base, and might be counterproductive.The primary mode of transmission of Ebola virus is through contact with infected patients' secretions (such as blood, vomit, or faeces) directly and indirectly (for example, from contaminated needles). This transmission occurs via close family contact or in health-care settings, particularly when placing orotracheal intubation or when caring for a patient who is vomiting or bleeding. Ebola is rarely transmitted via an airborne route. Although these routes of transmission are well known, most agencies, including governmental agencies responsible for repatriating western patients, apply infection-control measures appropriate for airborne diseases.