The ADA released an educational handout Feb. 20 regarding prevention of the novel coronavirus, which will inevitably spread through U.S. communities, a top CDC official warned Feb. 25.
Below are some key takeaways used to prevent the novel coronavirus illness, dubbed COVID-19:
1. Patients with acute respiratory illnesses should be identified at check-in and placed in a single-patient room with the door kept shut.
2. Disposable surgical masks should be offered to coughing individuals.
3. Tissues should be provided and disposed of in no-touch garbage cans.
4. Dental healthcare personnel assessing a patient with a respiratory illness should wear a disposable surgical face mask, gloves, gown and eye protection.
5. All employees should perform proper hand hygiene after possible exposure to infection.
The handout also includes frequently asked questions, along with other resources.