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Most US healthcare workers don't need this level of protection for routine patient contact. Unless a patient has actually been around an Ebola victim or traveled recently to West Africa, there's virtually no risk of that person having the disease. If you work in the ER or the ICU, just use the universal health and safety precautions, unless you are dealing with a potential Ebola carrier -- then see strict isolation and hazmat precautions above.
Healthcare providers caring for a person with Ebola and the family and friends in close contact with the person with Ebola are at the highest risk of getting sick because they may come in contact with the blood or body fluids of the sick person. The Ebola virus also can be spread through contact with objects (like clothes, bedding, needles, syringes/sharps and medical equipment) that have been contaminated with the virus.
During outbreaks of Ebola, the disease can spread quickly within healthcare settings (such as a clinic or hospital) where staff are not wearing appropriate protective equipment, including masks, gowns, and gloves and eye protection.
Dedicated medical equipment (preferably disposable, when possible) should be used by healthcare personnel providing care. Proper cleaning and disposal of instruments, such as needles and syringes, is also important. If instruments are not disposable, they must be sterilized before being used again. Without adequate sterilization of the instruments, Ebola virus transmission can continue and amplify an outbreak.
Healthcare workers who may be exposed to people with Ebola should follow these steps:
- Wear protective clothing, including masks, gloves, gowns and eye protection.
- Practice proper infection control and sterilization measures.
- Isolate people with Ebola from other people.
- Avoid direct contact with the bodies of people who have died from Ebola.
- Notify health officials if you have had direct contact with the blood or body fluids, such as but not limited to, feces, saliva, urine, vomit and semen of a person who is sick with Ebola. The virus can enter the body through broken skin or unprotected mucous membranes in, for example, the eyes, nose or mouth.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.