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| Influenza is mainly spread by droplet transmission, therefore there is little evidence to support the use of particulate respirator masks in every face to face contact situation. However particulate masks, eye protection, gloves and gowns/aprons should be used where there is a high risk of aerosol spread of respiratory secretions eg invasive procedures - suctioning, intubation, extubation, taking of nasopharyngeal swabs, nebulising |
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Primary Health Care Preparedness
Community-Based Assessment Centres
The Ministry is discussing the concept with DHBs re the development
of these centres for use in Phase Red of an influenza pandemic.
Background
- Based on the WHO global influenza preparedness plan in Phase 4 of a pandemic alert period, countries need to "implement surge capacity arrangements and contingency plans for staff shortages in health-care facilities". The NZ Influenza Pandemic Action Plan states that "emphasis should be given to out-of-hospital care and saving hospital beds for the most severe cases."
- Community Clinics were a key feature of the community response in the 1918 pandemic, and are in recognition of the likely inability of the secondary and primary health care sector to cope with large numbers.
Suggested Role
- Basic functions are suggested to include:
- Access to anti-virals and antibiotics
- Triage, assessment, information, advice and referral
- Infection prevention and infection control advice
- The range of possible functions of CBACs will depend on the resources available and the local needs/ plans, and is currently being further explored.
What could they look like?
- A stand-alone facility set up in current medical clinics, community
centres, schools, marae, motels, hospital outpatient services, tents..
- Places that local communities are familiar with and can access
easily, with secure storage, staff facilities, site security and
disposal systems.
Ongoing national and DHB discussion is underway to further develop this concept.
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