CDC: Transmission of COVID-19 to HCW from a hospitalized patient in Solano County, California

Editor's Note

In this study, unprotected, prolonged patient contact and certain exposures, including aerosol-generating procedures, were linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare workers (HCW) exposed to a hospitalized patient with unrecognized COVID-19 in Solano County, California.

Of 121 HCW exposed to a patient with unrecognized COVID-19, 43 became symptomatic and were tested; 3 had positive test results.

HCW who developed COVID-19 had longer durations of exposure to the patient, and exposures during nebulizer treatments were more common. Of the 43 HCW, 51% were RNs, 84% were female, and 95% were at high or medium risk.

Early recognition and isolation of patients with possible SARS-CoV-2 infection and recommended personal protective equipment use can help minimize unprotected, high-risk HCW exposures, the researchers say.