The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly endorses the uninterrupted care of children during the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic in a manner that is safe for pediatricians, office staff, children, and families. Consistent and effective infection prevention and control (IPC) practices need to be employed (including the appropriate use of personal protective equipment [PPE]) to mitigate the risk of infection for all who work or receive care in ambulatory settings. Although the evidence base is evolving, this resource offers guidance for pediatric care in ambulatory settings (eg, offices, urgent care centers, school-based or school-linked clinics, and homes) in urban and rural settings.
Click here for: Guidance on the Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Pediatric Care in Ambulatory Care Settings During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-guidance/guidance-on-the-use-of-personal-protective-equipment-ppe-for-pediatric-care-in-ambulatory-care-settings-during-the-sars-cov-2-pandemic/
Epidemiological data strongly support that SARS-CoV-2 transmission can occur from both adults and children to family members and other contacts. SARS-CoV-2 spreads during close contact from person-to-person mainly through respiratory droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, or talking. Aerosols (smaller liquid droplets produced as a fine spray) can also be a source of transmission and may be produced by certain procedures or patients. Droplets can transmit infection when they land on mucous membranes, when inhaled, or less commonly through fomites or contaminated surfaces. Droplets can land and persist on surfaces, with potential secondary spread when touched. Because SARS-CoV-2 spreads easily and can be transmitted by children and adults who may not have symptoms, standard precautions are warranted during the pandemic to protect health care personnel, patients, and families. (See the AAP policy, Infection Prevention and Control in Pediatric Ambulatory Settings).
