Pathogens
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

Precautions

See 'Additional Information'

General Information

SARS-CoV-2 (2019-nCoV) is a respiratory betacoronovirus that causes the disease COVID-19

Related to the viruses that cause SARS and MERS

  • Emerged in late 2019 in Wuhan, China
  • Transmission via droplets is the primary mode of transmission in most settings
  • Aerosol-generating procedures may spread the virus further than classic droplet spread
  • Highest transmission rates from close contacts
  • Fomite transmission is possible, but likely has a minor role

COVID-19 is the name of the disease caused by the COVID-19 virus, also known as SARS-CoV-2 virus

  • Universal eye protection is recommended but no longer mandatory. Eye protection based on Modified Standard and other transmission-based precautions (e.g., Expanded Precautions) still applies.
  • N95 use + eye protection is still needed for aerosol generating procedures and patients/rule outs on Expanded Precautions
  • Unvaccinated employees may wear aseptic masks as long as they are being tested per CMHS protocol
  • CCC employees shall wear PPE per facility protocol
  • When taking masks off to eat/drink, please continue to practice social distancing
  • Individuals with high risk COVID-19 exposures shall continue to wear N95s as instructed by Employee Health or Infection Prevention
  • If there are questions regarding PPE use, please contact Infection Prevention

Adapted from the Joseph Brant Hospital Antimicrobial Stewardship Program