IADR Abstract Archives

The use of An HEPA Respirator in combating SARS

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the air quality in a dental office with ultrasonic scaling being carried out with and without the use of a High Efficiency Particulate Air-Filter (HEPA) respirator. Methods: General indoor air quality (IAQ) parameters, RSP and airborne microbes were measured to ascertain the environmental conditions of a dental office were performed with and without the use of ultrasonic scaling. Results: Bacterial counts on the dentist side of the office were higher than that on the DSA side, by an average of 31.5%. Both RSP and airborne bacteria were almost completely removed by the HEPA respirator. Discussion: The pollutants were more concentrated on the dentist's sides and the HEPA respirator reduced the levels of pollutants in the dental office. Conclusion: The HEPA respirator effectively reduced the aerosols during aerosol-generating dental procedures in treating patients with known or suspected infections. (The private donation for Research combating SARS (a/c 20003958) is gratefully acknowledged.)


Division: Southeast Asian Division Meeting
Meeting: 2004 Southeast Asian Division Meeting (Koh Samui, Thailand)
Location: Koh Samui, Thailand
Year: 2004
Final Presentation ID: 150
Abstract Category|Abstract Category(s): Scientific Groups
Authors
  • Au-yeung, King San  ( University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, N/A, Hong Kong )
  • Cheung, Kwok Pun  ( University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, N/A, Hong Kong )
  • Leung, Michael K.h.  ( University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, N/A, Hong Kong )
  • Fung, Ka Shuen  ( University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, N/A, Hong Kong )
  • Liu, Chun Ho  ( University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, N/A, Hong Kong )
  • Yip, Hak Kong  ( University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, N/A, Hong Kong )
  • SESSION INFORMATION
    Oral Session
    Microbiology / Immunology and Infection Control
    09/05/2004