Society-based Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines after COVID-19: A Delphi Study. 

Abstract

Background Current infection prevention and control guidelines, protocols, and practices for public, outside healthcare facilities are not adequate by evidence of increasing rates of infections and outbreaks. This study proposed to formulate a consensus on the guidelines that would then govern future public health-related infection prevention and control practices. Methods A three-round Delphi technique to generate experts’ consensus on the development and required modifications of the current IPC guidelines to address public safety. Eighteen infection prevention and control practitioners and experts interviewed individually during the three rounds. Results Three themes identified during the first round. First, policies and regulations. Second, curricula reforms and education for all levels (such as kindergartens, schoolers, and the public). Third; content of IPC public manual. Results from Round I, II, and III changed a few subcategories until experts agreed on the themes and the subthemes. It is required that one department be responsible for providing IPC and the needed training of employees and public individuals in non-healthcare institutes. Conclusion It’s important to have one reference that provides IPC-related consultations to all, including the promotion of proper implementation of IPC guidelines as required by each industry. This includes unification of the assessment, evaluation, and follow-up of IPC issues in industries other than health facilities that involve human well-being.