In this week’s episode, infection control and prevention expert Jackie Dorst, RDH, BS, addresses the spike in COVID-19 cases in the last few weeks and the fact that practices are more likely to have patients coming into the office who are asymptomatic as a result. She talks about why now, more than ever, it’s important for the ortho team to make sure they are taking precautions and implementing best practices.

What’s more, she discusses the findings of two recent American studies published by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that identified airborne transmission as the dominant route for the spread of COVID-19. Jackie points out that the findings reinforce the importance of wearing masks throughout the workday.

And finally, Jackie talks about why the orthodontic team—both doctors and staff—have to be conscious of how they present themselves on social media—both their work and personal accounts. As Jackie says, if it’s a work post, “Be certain that when you do post photographs that everyone is wearing a mask” and that you are practicing proper social distancing. And for personal Facebook and Instagram posts: Be conscious of the fact that your accounts may be connected to the practice. It’s important to be sure that you are in compliance with local state guidance and safety precautions in any photos you post. OP

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