"At present, there are no cases registered nationwide, but their hypothetical occurrence still requires adequate preparation and coordination measures ." This is stated in the new circular from the Ministry of Health, which "with a view to ensuring an approach based on maximum precaution " and to providing useful information to the requests for clarification received from the Regions, shares technical and operational guidelines for the management of potential cases.

"In all clinical care activities, from initial admission to ambulance transport and throughout hospitalization, healthcare personnel must wear" certain "personal protective equipment to ensure the prevention of transmission by direct/indirect contact, through respiratory droplets and through the respiratory tract." The recommended devices are glasses, goggles, or visors to protect the eyes and mucous membranes . For respiratory protection , filtering face protection with FFP2 or FFP3 masks. For hand protection , disposable gloves are recommended; for lower limb protection , footwear with shoe covers is recommended.

The risk to the Italian population, as repeatedly emphasized by the ministry, remains low.

"Within two days of receiving the circular," the statement continues, " the Regions and Autonomous Provinces are asked to send the Ministry a list of healthcare facilities equipped with appropriate containment measures for the management of biological agents." This request is "aimed at ensuring a maximum precautionary approach."

(Unioneonline/vl)

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