New threat: 2019 novel Coronavirus infection and infection control perspective in Turkey

Kilic, Aysegul Ulu; Kara, Fatih; Alp, Emine; Doganay, Mehmet

Against the epidemic of coronavirus, an operation center was established in Ankara within the General Directorate of Public Health. A scientific board worked in the center, scanning all the recent information in the world and monitored them closely and instantly. To take necessary precautions in all health care facilities, all actual developments about the epidemic of coronavirus, especially in China and other countries shared correctly and securely by the Ministry of Health. Besides the Risk Assessment and Scientific Board, other institutions (e.g., Turkish Airlines, General Directorate of Border and Coastal Health, General Directorate of Public Hospitals) were also involved in the process. The meetings for novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) disease continued for 24/7. The essential preventive measures have been taken compatible with the WHO recommendations. Health checks to identify sick passengers who may come from risky areas were performed at all entry points of the country, such as airports and sea entry points. Early warning systems activated in all borders of the country. Specific actions were taken in case of the determination of any suspicion of illness. Infection control measures primarily hand hygiene and the proper use of personal protective equipment (such as medical mask, N95/FFP2, face shields, gloves) were promoted by health authorities. A guideline for health care professionals was established immediately, including the definition of suspected and definite cases, also preventive and control measures for transmission of disease in all healthcare facilities. The guideline included algorithms for healthcare workers for how to manage the disease, transport and referral criteria of patients and clearly defined the duties and responsibilities of facilities. The guideline also included information for people coming from or going to countries where disease experienced. This guideline, which is constantly updated, is available on the official website of the General Directorate of Public Health. Respiratory tract samples from patients compatible with the definition of possible cases were resulted in a few days. During this time, cases were isolated in health facilities until the sample result is obtained.