Doff Thy Gown-Shedding Contact Precautions for COVID-19

Clin Infect Dis. 2024 Sep 26;79(3):585-587. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciae276.

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 is predominantly transmitted through aerosols (ie, airborne transmission); however, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to recommend the use of contact precautions (a gown and gloves) for the care of patients with COVID-19. Infection-prevention guidelines should reflect the current science and eliminate this wasteful practice.

Keywords: COVID-19; climate change; contact precautions; infection prevention and control; sustainability.

MeSH terms

  • Aerosols
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • COVID-19* / transmission
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S.
  • Gloves, Protective
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / methods
  • Protective Clothing*
  • SARS-CoV-2*
  • United States

Substances

  • Aerosols