Dear all
The following is from the summary guidance document below:
".... the risk to laboratory staff is considered to be minimal in 'low possibility of VHF' cases and low in 'high possibility of VHF cases'....."
".....it is safe to perform malaria investigations and indeed these tests are critical
in the management of patients with suspected VHF. Malaria investigations should be
carried out urgently when VHFs are suspected. Laboratory tests may be performed
under Containment Level 2 conditions, following good laboratory practice at all times.
Although the ACDP guidance does not explicitly recommend use of eye protection,
mask or gloves in performing malaria films, use of this PPE and of a secure sample
stand to minimise risk of spillage is best practice.
Q: What is a 'closed' analyser for chemistry and haematology testing? What
PPE should lab staff be wearing to load/unload the machines?
A: A 'closed' system analyser is one in which once the sample has been loaded, all
manipulations occur in a sealed environment. Laboratory staff should wear standard
CL2 laboratory PPE and adhere to good laboratory practice at all times."
The guidance refers to "closed" systems in terms of analysers, but the high risk step is actually removing the sample cap after centrifugation (except of course in labs with robotic systems in place).
How are other laboratories planning to deal with 'high possibility' samples?
Regards
Marieke
Dr Marieke Jordaan
Consultant Chemical Pathologist / Head of Clinical Service, Pathology
Mid-Yorkshire Trust
Email: [log in to unmask]
Tel: (01924) 317060 or ext 57060
PA, Diane Blakeston: (01924) 317056 or ext 57056
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-----Original Message-----
From: RCPath Mailbase [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 21 August 2014 12:34
To: Jordaan Marieke
Subject: From RCPath: Sent on behalf of Public Healrh England - Management of Hazard Group 4 viral haemorrhag
Dear Dr Jordaan
We would like to draw to your attention the publication of revised guidance on the 'Management of Hazard Group 4 viral haemorrhagic fevers and similar human infectious diseases of high consequence' by the Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens (ACDP) earlier this week. The guidance includes an updated algorithm (pg. 13), and appendix 7 covers laboratory testing aspects.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/viral-haemorrhagic-fever-algorithm-and-guidance-on-management-of-patients
The revised guidance complements the Ebola preparedness activities that are currently underway within Public Health England (PHE).
http://www.hpa.org.uk/Topics/InfectiousDiseases/InfectionsAZ/Ebola/
PHE has drafted some 'Frequently Asked Questions' on laboratory testing and infection control and prevention. These are available at:
Summary Guidance for Acute Trust Staff: FAQ's on Ebola for Infection Control and Prevention staff
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/346275/Summary_guidance_for_acute_trust_staff_Labs_15_08_2014.pdf
With regards
Diane Gaston
Head of Communications
The Royal College of Pathologists
Sent on behalf of PHE Microbiology Services
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