Precautions of Nipah virus infection in Dental Clinics

Nipah Virus Alert

The outbreak of Nipah viral Infection, needs a few precautions to be taken care of in dental clinics.

> Follow Universal precautions for infection control Eg:- Double Surgical glove, eye wear, Triple layer Masks, Apron for Doctors and assistants

> Use Handwash after each case.

> Assistants should use rubber gloves while handling used instruments and medical wastes

> Proper Sterilization of Instruments Including files and dental burs, Gutta percha,  Impression trays after use

> Disinfection of Impressions
( Alginate and impression compound , elastomeric materials disinfected with 0.5% sodium Hypochlorite)

> Proper waste disposal including waste sharps like needle and Blades

> Maintain proper record of patients and treatment given. Also educate the patient the need to inform the clinic if their relatives or themselves have any symptoms related to Nipah infection at the time of   treatment or post treatment

> Identify for any symptoms like fever, headache, drowsiness etc since few days and refer them for a proper medical check-Up and Care.(Remember the incubation period is 5 - 14 days so patient may be asymptomatic while he comes for dental treatment)

>AS A PRECAUTION - Reschedule appointments for elective scaling, Crown preparations, Restorations to reduce splatter contamination of clinic for atleast two weeks.


>EMERGENCY cases like dental extractions, Drainage of Abscess etc to be done with extra precautions.

>Use of disposable drapes for patients recommended.