Protecting health workers - Health workers are at the forefront of the global fight against the COVID-19, and while they represent less than 3% of the global population, around 14% of COVID-19 cases occurred among them.

Globally, health personnel faces severe challenges in occupational health and safety, and working conditions. They are particularly vulnerable due to their exposure to the Virus and the physical and mental distress their heavy workloads generate. There is a need for urgent action to protect their health, safety, and well-being, which requires a comprehensive set of measures, including effective Infection Prevention and Control at the workplace, adapted work organization, and the implementation of adequate occupational safety and health management systems. In addition, healthcare workers need the provision of mental health and psychosocial support and protective equipment.

Click on the following link for more information:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32299519/

To minimize their exposure to COVID-19, when caring for patients with communicable infections, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is vital to interrupt the transmission in addition to hand hygiene. PPE is the first line of protection for health care personnel. Providing medical care for patients with COVID 19 is a severe risk of transmission if appropriate measures are not adhered to, and several health workers have already died during the pandemic.