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Healthcare workers’ training and information levels over an occupationally acquired Ebola virus disease

Abstract Background: Hundreds of West African healthcare workers (HCW) have become ill with Ebola virus disease (EVD) and died during the recent outbreak. The occurrence of occupational infections in laboratories could be due to the lack of use of personal protective equipment, the failure to implement specific regulations about the use of equipment and how to work with hazardous materials. Our study attempted to assess the information as well as training level of HCW of a German high level isolation unit and their concern over an occupationally acquired EVD. Methods: During the recent Ebola virus outbreak a survey was conducted among HCWs, using an anonymous questionnaire. Results: Although 70% of our total study population stated that they have all the information needed to care for Ebola patients, only 18.2% of laboratory workers and 29.4% of the HCW of the virology department felt sufficiently trained. The HCW rated the Internet (64.3%) and the daily press (54.3%) as the most important sources of information. Medical literature (45.7%) and official institutions (40.4%) were rated less often. Conclusions: Formulated pointedly, the HCW turned to popular science to get the information they need to feel safe. Further in house training regarding practical skills and reference to scientific literature would be a better solution to ensure workplace safety.