A critical analysis of infection control in general and dental departments: Lessons learned from COVID-19 and beyond

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Research Paper 04/12/2023
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A critical analysis of infection control in general and dental departments: Lessons learned from COVID-19 and beyond

Sami Alzahrani, Khalid Mohammed Alomari, Sultan Muidh Hasan Alghamdi, Jaber Ahmad Muslih Al shamrani, Wesam Faiz Bakhadlaq, Ranin Ali Bati, Abdullah Ali Alghamdi, Ali Mohammed Alsahli
Int. J. Biosci.23( 6), 22-33, December 2023.
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Abstract

This review aims to synthesize key findings and recurring themes related to infection prevention and control during pandemics. It draws insights from recent research on the COVID-19 pandemic and past infectious disease outbreaks. A comprehensive analysis of relevant studies was conducted to identify and extract key themes related to infection control measures. Four central themes were derived from the reviewed literature: early detection and surveillance, proactive governmental commitment, transparent risk communication, and multifaceted infection control measures. Theme 1: early detection and surveillance: The critical importance of early detection and surveillance in effective infection control emerged as a central theme. Timely identification of cases, coupled with robust surveillance systems and contact tracing, played a pivotal role in halting outbreaks and breaking transmission chains. Theme 2: proactive governmental commitment: Another recurrent theme underscored the significance of proactive governmental commitment in orchestrating coordinated pandemic responses. Governmental commitment fostered cross sectorial collaboration and inspired public trust and cooperation. Theme 3: transparent risk communication: The findings consistently highlighted the pivotal role of transparent risk communication with the public. Clear, timely, and candid risk communication not only disseminated critical information but also engendered higher levels of public trust and cooperation. Theme 4: multifaceted infection control measures: The importance of implementing multifaceted infection control measures was another central theme. Successful pandemic management required a combination of strategies, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability in response to evolving epidemiological situations. The results underscore several implications for future pandemic preparedness efforts. Key priorities include investments in surveillance infrastructure and testing capabilities, the establishment of clear lines of responsibility within governments, the integration of transparent risk communication into all stages of pandemic response, and the adoption of flexible, multifaceted infection control measures. These insights provide valuable guidance for shaping robust pandemic preparedness plans and fostering international collaborations to mitigate the impact of future infectious disease outbreaks.

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