ICCS Infection Prevention & Infection Control Newsletter: July 2020
After a brief hiatus, we are resuming the monthly ICCS Infection Prevention & Control Newsletter. This issue shares some of the most significant news and guidance from July. Topics include COVID-19 FAQs, methanol-based hand sanitizers, masks, FDA and EPA approvals, smell tests, and ICCS company news.
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Special Report: COVID-19 Perioperative Infection Prevention and Safety: 11 FAQs — This ICCS report, updated in late July, answers some of the most common COVID-19-related questions our team members received from perioperative providers.
CDC Warns of Serious Adverse Events From Methanol-Based Hand Sanitizers — CDC issued an advisory concerning the potential for serious adverse health events associated with the use of methanol-based hand sanitizer products. Since this post, the FDA added many additional products to its list of products to avoid.
Hospitals Must Treat Infection Control as a Priority, Not a Profit Center — One barrier to effective prevention has been the disturbing demand by many hospitals for a "business case" for infection control.
The Best (and Worst) Materials for Masks — Research found that not all masks are created equal.
FDA Authorizes First Diagnostic Test for Screening of People Without Known or Suspected COVID-19 Infection — This authorization from the FDA is also the second to allow testing of pooled samples.
EPA Approves First Surface Disinfectant Products Tested on the SARS-CoV-2 Virus — The EPA approved two Lysol products as effective against the novel coronavirus.
Chronic Conditions Put Nearly Half of U.S. Adults at Risk for Severe COVID-19 — About 47% of U.S. adults have an underlying condition strongly tied to severe COVID-19 illness.
New Study Explores How Coronavirus Travels Indoors — A study analyzes how the novel coronavirus spreads indoors — information that could help businesses and schools take precautions to reduce the chance of COVID-19 transmission as they reopen.
Can 'Smell Tests' Screen for COVID-19? Here's What the Research Says. — Many businesses and workplaces are relying on temperature checks to screen for the novel coronavirus, but new research suggests a different approach: smell tests.
Evidence Used to Update the List of Underlying Medical Conditions That Increase a Person's Risk of Severe Illness From COVID-19 — CDC continues to update its list of underlying medical conditions that put individuals at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19, with the most recent update coming July 28.
COVID-19 Event Risk Assessment Planning Tool — An interactive resource allows you to estimate the likelihood of at least one person at an event having COVID-19 based upon the location and number of people at the event.
Ambu Wins FDA Clearance for Single-Use Duodenoscope Product — According to Ambu, its device consists of a single-use scope and a reusable processor unit.
A User's Guide To Masks: What's Best At Protecting Others (And Yourself) — When choosing a mask, experts say focus on the fabric, fit, and breathability.
ICCS Company News: Infection Control Consulting Services Launches Division to Support Non-Healthcare Businesses — ICCS announced the launch of a dedicated division to support non-healthcare businesses as they work to navigate the challenges, requirements, and ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
ICYMI: Patient and Staff Safety During COVID-19: Waiting and Break Room Tips — Published in June, the ICCS team shared recommended infection prevention practices for waiting rooms and break rooms.
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