Changes in infection prevention practices and occurrence of skin symptoms among healthcare workers, cleaners and day-care workers in Norway during the COVID-19 pandemic

Source avec lien : Acta Dermato-Venereologica, 103. 10.2340/actadv.v103.3420

Cette étude vise à évaluer si les changements dans les procédures d’hygiène des mains, l’utilisation d’équipements de protection individuelle et d’hydratants au cours de la première année de la pandémie de COVID-19 étaient associés à des changements dans l’apparition de symptômes cutanés chez les travailleurs de la santé, les nettoyeurs et les employés de garderie.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased attention on infection prevention measures. This study aims to assess whether changes in hand hygiene procedures, use of personal protective equipment and moisturizers during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with changes in the occurrence of skin symptoms among healthcare workers, cleaners, and day-care workers. A total of 602 participants (40%) responded to an electronic questionnaire, including questions on previous and current occupational exposure and skin problems. Increased frequency of hand washing, use of hand disinfectants, use of disposable gloves and moisturizers were all associated with an increased symptom score on the hands, wrists, forearms. Participants who increased their use of masks or respirators had a higher risk of facial skin symptoms, compared with those with non-increased occupational exposure. In conclusion, a change of behaviour among healthcare workers, cleaners and day-care workers during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, with an increase in occupational exposures and use of moisturizers, was associated with higher occurrence of facial skin symptoms and symptoms on the hands, wrists and forearms.

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