Acta Medica Port
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Review
[Respiratory and Facial Protection: Current Perspectives in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic].
The new SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is an example of an international public health emergency, which is associated with considerable social and economic challenges. At the healthcare level there is the risk that nosocomial outbreaks can be local amplifiers. Adequate infection control practices are of critical importance, which include proper use of personal protective equipment. ⋯ Eye protection should be guaranteed whenever there is a risk of splashes, droplets or aerosols. The use of different, or higher than necessary, level of personal protective equipment, for the transmission route of the agent, is a form of misuse and can affect its supply for situations when it is clearly indicated. The adequate provision of protective equipment, as well as training of healthcare professionals in its correct use, is highly recommended to ensure safety of care.
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Multiple sclerosis typically affects young women of reproductive age. Therefore, all healthcare professionals involved in the follow-up of multiple sclerosis patients must be prepared to discuss pregnancy and breastfeeding issues and provide the best possible counselling. ⋯ Concerning the handling of disease modifying therapies during pregnancy and postpartum, existing uncertainties have been complicated by the increase in the number of treatments available in recent years. This article aims to present the state-of-the-art and provide guidance based on the best level of available evidence and expert opinion regarding the management of multiple sclerosis patients at different stages: pregnancy planning, pregnancy, partum, and the postpartum period.