Factors Associated with SARS Transmission Among Healthcare Workers in Hanoi
Author Information
Author(s): Mary G Reynolds, Anh Bach Huy, Thu Vu Hoang, Joel M Montgomery, Daniel G Bausch, J Jina Shah, Susan Maloney, Katrin C Leitmeyer, Vu Quang Huy, Peter Horby, Aileen Y Plant, Timothy M Uyeki
Primary Institution: National Centers for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
Hypothesis
What are the risk factors for acquiring SARS-CoV infection among healthcare workers during the outbreak in Hanoi?
Conclusion
The study identifies job categories and activities that increase the risk of SARS-CoV infection among hospital workers.
Supporting Evidence
- 79.3% of hospital staff consented to participate in the study.
- The highest SARS attack rates were among nurses in outpatient and inpatient wards.
- Serologic evidence of SARS-CoV infection was found in 4 individuals not previously identified as cases.
- Entering the index patient's room was associated with the highest risk for infection.
Takeaway
This study shows that many hospital workers can get sick from a virus called SARS, especially if they are close to infected patients.
Methodology
A survey and nested case-control study were conducted among hospital staff to assess exposure and symptoms related to SARS-CoV infection.
Potential Biases
Selection bias may have occurred due to incomplete participation among certain staff categories.
Limitations
The small sample size and potential recall bias may affect the precision of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study included clinical and non-clinical staff from a small private hospital in Hanoi.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% confidence intervals 4.1–97.1, 3.6–55.3
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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