See the April 20 , 2021 “Interim IPC Guideline” here Download
Good Afternoon
In the new COVID environment, that includes variants of concern with increased transmissibility, it is appropriate to re-focus on IPC best practices as outlined in the CDHM Interim IPC Guideline. In an attempt to keep you informed and abreast of the emerging science and research, the CDHM IPC Guideline has been reviewed for accuracy and the Shared Health links have been updated to ensure they are still active and relevant. The CDHM Guideline remains in effect. See page 9 for changes to recommendations for pre-procedural rinses. While the emerging research on pre-procedural rinsing has mostly used small sample sizes and a variety of in-vivo and in in-vitro studies, the early results suggest a change in best practice is indicated.
While COVID variant research is ongoing, it is important to be aware of the current explanation for the increased transmissibility of the variants. While there are a number of variants, the most common in the province of Manitoba is the B117 variant. Currently, there are two theories explaining the increased transmissibility. Using the B117 as an example; the opinion is that B117 variant is ‘stickier’ than the original virus. Mutations to the spike protein, which is the receptor that binds the virus to the human cell, holds on more tightly. The second theory is that the variant replicates faster in the body, creating a higher ‘viral load’. Consequently, when an infected person coughs or sneezes more of the virus is present in their respiratory droplets. Additional information from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention is available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/variant-surveillance/variant-info.html
As always, if you have questions contact the College office so we can assist
you.
In health,
Arlynn
Arlynn Brodie MHS,RDH
Registrar, Executive Director