Reducing
Nosocomial Transmission of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
in the Children's Center SUMMARY Updated 05/04 |
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It is the responsibility of each member of the hospital system to prevent and control infections. The
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Prevention Plan was established to facilitate the identification,
prevention and control of seasonal RSV infections that could potentially be transmitted to patients and staff.
At the Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHH) we follow a two-stage control Plan. Stage One is effective when the
first hospitalized patient from the local community with confirmed RSV infection is identified in the fall.
Stage Two becomes effective when five (5) hospitalized patients from the local community with confirmed
RSV infection have been identified. Additionally, we have identified specific procedures for Pediatric
patients and Oncology patients within each of the stages.
In general, once RSV has been identified in the hospital, all patients who present with upper respiratory
symptoms (URI) are placed in either Pediatric Droplet or Droplet Precautions (as appropriate for age) and
nasopharyngeal specimens are sent for RSV. Healthcare workers and visitors who have URI
symptoms are asked to wear a mask for contact with patients. Healthcare workers and visitors who have
URI symptoms and are febrile (temperature over 101º F) are asked to stay home for the safety of
our patients.
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