We’ve learned much from large COVID outbreaks linked to the Ruby Princess and Diamond Princess cruise ships early in the pandemic. But there’s still some way to go.
With the goal of ‘business as usual’, politicians will continue to reduce COVID protections without immediate consequence while transmission is low. But then the next wave will come.
A large proportion of primary school aged kids get infected with pinworm at some time – and yes, it can make them pretty moody.
COVID-19 will not be the last infectious disease event of our time. We need to prepare for the next challenge with evidence and knowledge.
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Before COVID-19, clean water, antibiotics and vaccines had made us complacent about infectious disease. Infection control can no longer be taken for granted. We must be prepared for future pandemics.
Normalizing the use of masks by vulnerable people during flu season could save many lives, even after the threat of COVID-19 has receded.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
After two years of COVID-19, it’s understandable that many people are weary of infection prevention measures. But simply being tired of the pandemic is no reason to let our guard down.
There are no COVID-specific protocols for forensic officers collecting evidence from crime scenes. New recommendations suggest how teams and their equipment can be reorganised to minimise the risk.
We can do better than building a village of glorified dongas. Smart quarantine can be much higher-tech, and more adaptable for future uses once the pandemic is over.
Health workers have long called for better protections against COVID-19. Well fitting masks are now required when caring for COVID-19 patients. But the guidelines on ventilation miss the mark.
We can learn from how the Howard Springs quarantine facility in the Northern Territory works when planning Victoria’s new hub.
Glenn Campbell/AAP Image
A deep clean involves cleaning objects or surfaces that may not be routinely cleaned, such as walls, ventilation ducts, curtains, carpets, and hard-to-reach places.
With no national standard, casually employed staff, a lack of PPE and a refusal to account for aerosol transmission, infections such as the one that prompted Perth’s lockdown will keep happening.
As we approach our first COVID-era Christmas, the way we celebrate this year might need a bit more thought. Here are some tips to keep the festivities with family and friends COVID-safe.