Controlling the exotic diseases: 1. Isolation facilities

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Biosecurity

Background:

• Exotic, highly virulent diseases such as Lassa fever, viral hemorrhagic fevers, smallpox, and plague pose a significant threat.
• These diseases can be introduced to Canada through natural or laboratory-acquired infections.
• Effective containment requires high-security isolation facilities and specialized laboratory services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline essential preparedness measures for Canadian hospitals facing the potential diagnosis of exotic diseases.
• To address the challenges posed by the general unavailability of high-security isolation facilities in Canada.
• To guide hospitals in developing robust isolation and containment plans.

Main Methods:

• Developing comprehensive isolation plans addressing facility construction, ventilation, filtration, and environmental controls.
• Implementing stringent protective measures for healthcare staff.
• Establishing protocols for the safe handling and decontamination of laboratory specimens and contaminated materials.
• Considering appropriate and safe disposal methods for deceased patients.

Main Results:

• The study highlights the critical need for pre-planning and readiness in Canadian hospitals.
• It emphasizes adapting existing infrastructure to provide the best possible isolation under current conditions.
• The plan necessitates a multi-faceted approach including environmental controls, staff protection, specimen handling, and waste management.

Conclusions:

• Canadian hospitals must proactively plan for the isolation and management of patients with exotic, highly virulent diseases.
• Given the limited availability of high-security facilities, adaptable and rigorous containment strategies are essential.
• Effective preparedness involves detailed planning for infrastructure, staff safety, laboratory services, decontamination, and disposal.