The risk of contracting and spreading the SARS-CoV-2 virus increases as the weather gets chillier, and we move our lives indoors over the winter.
The good news is that principles of prevention are still the same, however great diligence must be practiced by all. When we give Infection Control Risk Assessment training to personnel in hospitals, we emphasize the understanding of the “Chain of Infection” so we can break the spread at any point along the chain. As a COVID consultant, and a citizen of this world, I am amazed that is all the news and communications about the virus, the most basic timeless and true prevention factor has been not considered holistically.
Chain of Infection
Let’s break it down. The Pathogen is SARS-CoV-2. The Reservoir is infected humans. The Portal of Exit is the respirator system (so wear a face covering over your nose and mouth). The Mode of Transportation is primarily respiratory droplets (so wear a face covering when you are around others especially within six feet, inside, and when there are many people in a close area). The Portal of Entry is primarily the respiratory system (so wash your hands and wear a mask, practice good cough etiquette) . The Susceptibility of the Host puts some people at higher risk of infection and disease manifestation (so let’s protect anyone with pre-existing complicating health conditions). STOP THIS CHAIN at any link, and you stop the disease. Redundant stops make it even harder to spread.
The best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to Stop the Chain of Infection:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, liberally use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer until you can wash.
• Wear a mask covering your nose and mouth when you are near other people.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
It works. Enjoy your holidays and show that you care for your friends and family by protecting them.
Contributor: Hoyt Emmons, MS, MBA – Principal Consultant, Med-Tex Services hemmons@med-texservices.com
