The latest number of laboratory confirmed measles cases in England has been published by the UKHSA in an updated epidemiological overview:
From 1 October 2023, there have been 347 laboratory confirmed measles cases reported in England, with 127 of these cases confirmed in January 2024.
It is vital for front line NHS staff to protect themselves with the correct FP3 PPE when dealing with a patient who potentially has measles. Health care workers who are exposed to a confirmed or suspected case of measles and do not have satisfactory evidence of protection (2 documented doses of measles containing vaccination or measles IgG positive) should be excluded from work from the 5th day after the first exposure to 21 days after the final exposure.
In its guidance for risk assessment and infection prevention and control measures for measles in healthcare settings, updated in January 2024, the NHS recommends that healthcare organisations should ensure that suitable P3 level respirators should be used by staff who are assessing or clinically treating patients who are suspected of confirmed as having measles. Indeed, they state that “if they have face-to-face contact of any length or spend more than 15 minutes in a small, confined area with a confirmed measles patient without wearing appropriate PPE (RPE)”.
The below Honeywell PA500 Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) utilises P3 level particulate filtration, offering protection against 20 x the safe Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) for fine particulates and dust. At this level of filtration, P3 level PAPR solutions are rated to be suitable for protection against airborne pathogens including Measles which is transmitted via airborne respiratory particles from infected individuals. As a lightweight, versatile solution it is an ideal solution for anyone working within the healthcare industry who may be exposed to these airborne risks for extended periods of time.
If you would like to discuss how the Honeywell Primair solution can ensure that you and your team are protected, please get in contact with the experts today 01903 896 630
