Measures aimed at preventing in medical institutions the transmission of Epstein–Barr virus infection (review)

Abstract

To systematize the existing methods, techniques, and means of non-specific prevention transmission of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in medical institutions, the authors perform a comprehensive analysis of data from domestic and foreign literature. Information was collected using Scopus, Web of Science, MedLine, the Cochrane Library, PubMed, RSCI, Cyberleninka. The analysis revealed data confirming the relevance of EBV infection for different areas of clinical medicine. Researchers do not classify EBV as a causative agent of diseases associated with medical care. Measures aimed at preventing transmission of EBV infection similar to those of other illnesses should consider the existing mechanisms of the transmission and the pathogen’s characteristics. The lifetime persistence of EBV in the human body, the presence of the pathogen in various organs and tissues during the active infection, the polymorphism of clinical manifestations of the disease, along with errors in compliance with disinfection and sterilization regimes, create a risk of cross-infection in medical institutions of various profiles. Intensive introduction into medical practice of modern including invasive methods of diagnosis and treatment assisted reproductive technologies; medical equipment contributes to the emergence of new factors of transmission of EBV infection and requires the development of standard protocols for their disinfection and sterilization. To improve medical staff’s competence it is necessary to introduce more widely training activities on preventive and anti-epidemic measures in the system of continuing medical education.