Current Infection Prevention and Control Strategies of COVID-19 in Hospitals.

Kalin Ünüvar, Gamze; Doğanay, Mehmet; Alp, Emine

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been appeared first in China since December 2019. Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurs primarily with droplets through coughing and sneezing, is also occurs through inhalation of aerosolized secretions, which travel, remain suspended in the air longer. Since early in the outbreak, have described COVID-19 cases in healthcare workers (HCWs). In the early stages of the disease, there may be asymptomatic. This may lead to incorrect diagnosis or delayed diagnosis and may lead to the nosocomial spread of the virus. One of the most important causes of transmission among HCWs is an aerosolized virus in a closed environment for a long time. It is possible to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 in hospitals with outpatient treatment and triage. Infection control measures, including wearing surgical masks, hand hygiene, and social distance, are considered essential in preventing human-to-human transmissions of SARS-CoV-2. Immediate response and practices of infection control measures are critical for saving lives during an epidemic inside and outside the hospital. Analyzing current knowledge about the features of SARS-CoV-2 infection, screening, personal protection protocols, triage and psychological support practices for healthcare professionals can be promising in terms of controlling the infection.