Thread by @DRTomlinsonEP

May 2020.
A true gem: no bias.
#COVIDisAirborne
doi.org/10.1136/bmjope…

‘HMG PPE guidance on the indications for use of FFP3 respirator relies on two assumptions. First, that its list of AGPs & high-risk areas are exhaustive. Second, that the droplet theory of SARS-CoV-2 transmission is correct.’
@TheBMA @theRCN @KGadhok

‘If either of these two postulates are incorrect & the role of aerosolisation transmission is greater than currently thought, the current triaging system of respirators may result in HMG PPE guidance indicating a less effective form of RPE in a higher-than-expected risk setting.’

‘Given this uncertainty, HMG PPE guidance should take a cautious approach rather than risk underprotecting staff. RPE guidance is increasingly stock driven. If RPE must be triaged due to unavailability of stock, FRSM wearing HCWs may be exposed to aerosolised SARS-CoV-2.’

Unanswered questions and future research

• Further rigorous study is required into the transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

This was May 2020.
What do we know now #COVIDisAirborne? @akm5376 @BarryHunt008 @NjbBari3

I love this one:

• ‘The validity of the droplet versus aerosol dichotomy of respiratory illness transmission is uncertain. It must be substantiated since it underpins HMG PPE guidance on RPE.’

#AnchoringBias

• ‘Expedited research is required to further understand aerosol-generating procedures, including an effort to standardise the classification of AGPs by different organisations as AGPs are the key indication for RPE triaging in HMG PPE guidance.’

@TonyPi314 & team thank you!

https://twitter.com/shellymboulder/status/1326926606263218177

‘It is suggested that if there were an unlimited stock of FFP3 respirators, the guidance would be that all inpatient facing HCWs would wear them continuously.’

How are UK FFP3 stock levels now: anyone know? @mancunianmedic @Chakladar_A @DrLindaDykes @FreshAirNHS