CDC Releases Interim Guidance for Environmental Infection Control in Hospitals for Ebola Virus

CDC Releases Interim Guidance for Environmental Infection Control in Hospitals for Ebola Virus

The recent Ebola virus disease outbreak in West Africa has increased the need for U.S. healthcare facilities to be prepared to safely manage a patient with suspected Ebola virus disease. To reduce potential risk posed by contaminated surfaces in the patient care environment, CDC recently released the Interim Guidance for Environmental Infection Control in Hospitals for Ebola Virus.

The guideline covers topics related to waste, linens, and recommended personal protective equipment for environmental services staff. It also includes a Q&A section on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, determining the appropriate EPA-registered hospital disinfectant, and management of spills of blood or other body substances. For more information, visit CDC’s Ebola website and webpage for healthcare workers.