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Public health guidelines recommend that manipulation of samples for influenza testing be done inside a safety cabinet.
If an employee has close contact with a patient with known or probable Influenza A 2009 H1N1 illness, an N95 respirator, as shown in the image below, should be worn, according to CDC guidelines. Note that if an N95 respirator is used, it must first be fit tested to ensure a complete seal around the mouth and nose.
Laboratorians should always observe basic infection control procedures including equipment/counter top decontamination and Standard Precautions that include the use of engineering controls such as safety cabinets; personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, fluid-resistant outer clothing, and respiratory protection; and work practice controls, such as frequent hand washing.
