COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico: surveillance protocol in intrahospital hemodialysis units

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 outbreak was declared a global health emergency by the WHO in January 2020.
• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 12.2% of the Mexican population, with 60,000 patients on renal replacement therapy at IMSS.
• Existing international guidelines for CKD patients and hemodialysis personnel during the pandemic are noted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose specific actions for managing suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases within intrahospital hemodialysis units in Mexico.
• To ensure the safety of patients with chronic kidney disease and healthcare workers in hemodialysis settings.

Main Methods:

• Development of an action plan based on existing global guidelines and the specific context of Mexican hemodialysis units.
• Focus on managing both suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Main Results:

• A proposal for action is presented for intrahospital hemodialysis units.
• The plan aims to mitigate risks associated with COVID-19 in this vulnerable patient population.

Conclusions:

• The proposed actions are crucial for safeguarding hemodialysis patients and staff in Mexico.
• Effective management strategies are needed to address the COVID-19 pandemic in renal replacement therapy centers.