Objectives To determine the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission by aerosols, to provide evidence on the rational use of masks, and to discuss additional measures important for the protection of healthcare workers from COVID-19. Methods Literature review and expert opinion. Short conclusion SARS-CoV-2, the pathogen causing COVID-19, is considered to be transmitted via droplets rather than aerosols, but droplets with strong directional airflow support may spread further than 2 m. High rates of COVID-19 infections in healthcare-workers (HCWs) have been reported from several countries. Respirators such as filtering face piece (FFP) 2 masks were designed to protect HCWs, while surgical masks were originally intended to protect patients (e.g., during surgery). Nevertheless, high quality standard surgical masks (type II/IIR according to European Norm EN 14683) appear to be as effective as FFP2 masks in preventing droplet-associated viral infections of HCWs as reported from influenza or SARS. So far, no head-to-head trials with these masks have been published for COVID-19. Neither mask type completely prevents transmission, which may be due to inappropriate handling and alternative transmission pathways. Therefore, compliance with a bundle of infection control measures including thorough hand hygiene is key. During high-risk procedures, both droplets and aerosols may be produced, reason why respirators are indicated for these interventions.
【저자키워드】 COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, infection control, Transmission, aerosol, droplet, Mask, 【초록키워드】 viral infection, Trial, Influenza, risk, Masks, surgical, healthcare worker, Aerosols, Spread, SARS-CoV-2 transmission, pathogen, COVID-19 infection, HCWs, Patient, Compliance, literature, Evidence, hygiene, HCW, Respirator, Support, measure, handling, transmission pathways, norm, objective, European, Prevent, effective, PROTECT, produced, reported, indicated, transmitted, determine, directional, 【제목키워드】 Masks, healthcare worker, Aerosols, SARS-CoV-2 transmission,