Universal use of surgical masks is tolerated and prevents respiratory viral infection in stem cell transplant recipients

J Hosp Infect. 2022 Jan:119:182-186. doi: 10.1016/j.jhin.2021.09.005. Epub 2021 Sep 17.

Abstract

Prevention of respiratory viral infection in stem cell transplant patients is important due to its high risk of adverse outcome. This single-centre, mixed methods study, conducted before the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 pandemic, explored the barriers and facilitators to a policy of universal mask use by visitors and healthcare workers, and examined the impact of the first year of introduction of the policy on respiratory viral infection rates compared with preceding years, adjusted for overall incidence. Education around universal mask use was highlighted as being particularly important in policy implementation. A significant decrease in respiratory viral infection was observed following introduction.

Keywords: Barriers; COVID-19; Coronavirus; Facemask; Infection prevention and control; Influenza; Mask; Neutropenia; Parainfluenza; Qualitative; RSV; Respiratory virus; Rhinovirus; Stem cell transplant.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Humans
  • Masks
  • Pandemics
  • Respiratory Tract Infections* / epidemiology
  • Respiratory Tract Infections* / prevention & control
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Transplant Recipients