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Reuse of respirators put healthcare workers at risk of SARS infection

Infection Control Monitor, November 5, 2004

Healthcare workers' reuse of respirator masks at two Hong Kong hospitals during last year's SARS outbreak put staff at a higher risk of infection, The Industry Standard reports.

An inquiry into the deaths of six hospital workers at Tuen Mun Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital found that those staff members were likely infected with SARS on the job.

Healthcare workers were asked to reuse N95 masks for as long as a week at one hospital and up to 30 days at the other facility, unless the equipment appeared soiled or damaged. In addition, staff were also asked to reuse protective gowns.

Hong Kong health officials say hospital precautionary guidelines issued at the time of the outbreak were based on the limited knowledge of the disease.

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