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2009 H1N1 linked to inadequate protective equipment use among HCWs
Jaeger Jl. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2011;32:1149-1157.
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Inadequate use of personal protective equipment among health care workers largely affected early transmission of influenza A during the 2009 pandemic — particularly in outpatient settings.
“The findings highlight the challenge of getting health care personnel to routinely wear personal protective equipment,” Jenifer L. Jaeger, MD, MPH, of the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Service, said in a press release. “The study also suggests that greater attention to infection control and preparedness, particularly among outpatient workers, is needed.”
For the cohort study, Jaeger and colleagues evaluated 2009 influenza A (H1N1) transmission among 63 health care workers (HCWs) exposed to six of the first eight cases of laboratory-confirmed H1N1 in the United States in two hospitals and one outpatient clinic in Southern California between March 28 and April 24, 2009. Serology results were compared for HCW setting, role and self-reported use of personal protective equipment.
H1N1 transmission was identified in 14% of exposed HCWs, of which, 67% had asymptomatic infection. The highest rates occurred among outpatient HCWs (32%) and technicians (24%).
Of 43 HCWs reporting no mask or N95 respirator use, 21% were seropositive vs. zero of 20 HCWs reporting mask or N95 respirator use.
“Organizational support for a comprehensive approach to infectious hazards, including infection prevention training for inpatient- and outpatient-based HCWs, is essential to improve HCW and patient safety,” the researchers wrote in the study.
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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