Recommendations for ventilation of remodeled negative-pressure isolation wards for COVID-19 patients: A comparison of international guidelines

Towards optimal design of patient isolation units in emergency rooms to prevent airborne virus transmission: From computational fluid dynamics to data-driven modeling

BACKGROUND

Patient isolation units (PIUs) can be an effective method for effective infection control. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is commonly used for PIU design; however, optimizing this design requires extensive computational resources. Our study aims to provide data-driven models to determine the PIU settings, thereby promoting a more rapid design process.

METHOD

Using CFD simulations, we evaluated various PIU parameters and room conditions to assess the impact of PIU installation on ventilation and isolation. We investigated particle dispersion from coughing subjects and airflow patterns. Machine-learning models were trained using CFD simulation data to estimate the performance and identify significant parameters.

RESULTS

Physical isolation alone was insufficient to prevent the dispersion of smaller particles. However, a properly installed fan filter unit (FFU) generally enhanced the effectiveness of physical isolation. Ventilation and isolation performance under various conditions were predicted with a mean absolute percentage error of within 13%. The position of the FFU was found to be the most important factor affecting the PIU performance.

CONCLUSION

Data-driven modeling based on CFD simulations can expedite the PIU design process by offering predictive capabilities and clarifying important performance factors. Reducing the time required to design a PIU is critical when a rapid response is required.

Non-Pharmacological Strategies and Interventions for Effective COVID-19 Control: A Narrative Review

The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the world, causing widespread illness and death. Focusing on prevention strategies to limit the spread of the disease remains essential. Despite the advent of vaccines, maintaining a vigilant approach to prevention remains paramount. We reviewed effective strategies to prevent COVID-19 transmission, including various prevention measures and interventions and both established practices and unresolved issues that have been addressed in meta-analyses, literature reviews, or in the health care context. Standard precautions are the cornerstone of infection control, with hand hygiene and mask use as key components. The use of surgical masks is recommended to prevent droplet transmission, while eye protection is recommended in combination with masks. In terms of room occupancy, ventilation is critical in reducing the risk of transmission in poorly ventilated environments. Chemical disinfection of indoor air with Triethylene glycol-based products can provide safe additional protection. Since viral RNA detection on surfaces does not necessarily indicate infectivity, the risk of transmission by surface contact remains low if surfaces are properly maintained and hand hygiene is practiced regularly. Thus, prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission requires a multifaceted approach, including reducing particle emissions from infected persons by wearing masks, eliminating aerosols by ventilation and air treatment, ensuring physical separation, and protecting exposed persons with masks and eye protection.