Remember to use safety from start to finish in collecting and submitting samples.
Please take precautions when handling tissue samples, especially when dealing with sick or animals found dead. As with other zoonotic (communicable) diseases, if CWD were to be transmissible to humans, the most likely route would be contact with infective tissues through either the oral route due to contaminated hands, mucosal membranes such as the eyes, inhalation if aerosols are present, or through breaks in the skin (wounds, cuts, etc.).
Below are precautions for collecting brain specimens for all personnel involved:
- Take extra care to avoid or minimize the use of tools and equipment likely to cause injury such as cuts, abrasions, or puncture wounds. Where use of such equipment is unavoidable then wear suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and clothing.
- Be sure to cover cuts, abrasions, and wounds with waterproof dressings (such as petroleum jelly) if left uncovered after PPE and clothing is put on.
- Use face and respiratory protection: a well-fitted respiratory mask and face shield or goggles to protect the eyes and respiratory system from infective droplets or tissue particles.
- Wear disposable gloves while handling tissue samples and more importantly when handling 10% NB formalin. When open formalin containers are present be sure to be in a well ventilated area.
FORMALIN CONTAINS FORMALDEHYDE!
Formaldehyde Can Cause the Following:
- Toxicity by Inhalation or if Swallowed
- Irritation to the eyes, respiratory system (nose, sinuses, mouth, trachea, etc.) and skin
- Sensitization by Inhalation or Skin Contact
- Risk of Serious Damage to Eyes
- May Cause Cancer especially with repeated or prolonged exposure
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Throughout the collection procedure take steps to avoid creating aerosols, splashes and dust (for example, when sawing through skull bones).
- Wash hands and exposed skin before eating, drinking, smoking, taking any medication, using a telephone or using a restroom.
- Wash and disinfect protective clothing and instruments thoroughly after use.
Use 50 ounces household bleach to a gallon of clean water as a disinfectant.
Remember, there is a very low risk of being
exposed to health hazards associated with collecting CWD samples.
These are only general precautions for collection of samples.
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