SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of Coronavirus Infectious Disease-19, commonly known as COVID-19.

Symptoms can range from mild respiratory symptoms (cold, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, coughing), elevated temperature/fever to severe pneumonia and dyspnea. Sudden loss of smell and/or taste (without nasal congestion) can also occur.

Transmission occurs through droplets coughed up from the patient's throat and, to a lesser extent, through direct or indirect contact.

1-2 days before symptoms start until 5 days after.

1-14 days (average 3-6 days).

Healthcare workers are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine annually, either on site or at the Municipal Health Service (GGD).

There is a risk of infection if there has been unprotected contact with an infectious source:

• 15 minutes unprotected contact within 1.5 meters.
• Unprotected intubation or suctioning (causing aerosol formation) or other aerosol-forming procedures.
• Direct coughing in the face.
• Via direct or indirect transmission: hands, surfaces.

Everyone is at risk of becoming infected with the coronavirus. The risk is highest in enclosed, crowded spaces.

The groups at increased risk of complications are determined by patient-related factors, such as existing immunity, age, and underlying conditions such as diabetes and lung disease.

During an epidemic, everyone is at risk of becoming infected with SARS-CoV2. The risk is greatest in enclosed, crowded spaces.

See SRI guideline Isolation. Depending on the isolation policy of your umc; IIR mouth- nose mask, gloves, apron, or isolation gown. For aerosol-generating procedures: FFP2 mask and splash goggles.

Good hand hygiene and cough hygiene and wearing an IIR mouth-nose mask if you have symptoms.

• All advice on COVID-19 vaccinations | Vaccinations | Health Council of the Netherlands
• COVID-19 | LCI guideline RIVM