Healthcare-associated infection prevention
Protective equipment in an epidemic
-Automatic translation
The Chief Epidemiologist manages the safety stock of equipment, e.g. medicines and protective equipment to respond to an epidemic or other threat (according to regulation no. 817/2012) purchased by the Icelandic state. The protective equipment stock includes various types of protective masks (FFP2 and FFP3), protective glasses, protective gowns, protective aprons, protective coveralls, and gloves.
The purpose is to react quickly if there is a sudden outbreak of an infection in society, e.g., a severe influenza outbreak. Thus, health workers must be protected against infection. The Chief Epidemiologist manages allocations from the stock according to a risk assessment. Requests for equipment from the warehouse can be made by calling 510-1933 and at the email address svl@landlaeknir.is.
Health workers must know how infectious diseases are transmitted and what equipment is necessary to protect against infection. In some cases, it is sufficient to use gloves and disposable plastic aprons. In other instances, tight protective masks are required when aerosol contamination must be prevented. Caring for patients with infectious diseases that have serious consequences, e.g. Ebola and other tropical diseases, requires maximum preparedness.
Service provider
Directorate of Health