Infection control measures during the COVID-19 outbreak: An experience from reopening dental clinics in a university environment.

Abstract Βackground: After almost three months of quarantine due to COVID-19 pandemic the national authorities in accordance with the administration of the Dental School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, made a huge effort to reopen the dental clinics of the School of Dentistry. Methods: The clinics were divided into three categories depending on the production of aerosol. Safety protocols for all personnel, students and patients were incorporated into daily routine. Labs, clinics and examinations were under surveillance of the Infection Control Committee of the School. All groups of students were subdivided, and appropriate distances were kept in all clinics and auditoriums. Strategies to lower patient attendance, reduce of aerosol, check the indoor air quality, monitor all visitors, control sterilization process and waste disposal are discussed further in this paper. Results: Many of the guidelines incorporated urgently due to the pandemic, are about to remain in many settings of the Dental School for future evaluation and better function of labs and clinics. Conclusion: A period of two months for training dental students in advanced safety protocols is needed while reopening due to COVID-19. The cost for protective equipment and single use materials tripled during the operation of dental clinics and laboratories due to COVID-19. Τhe amount of hazardous waste produced in the dental clinics doubled in a period of two months. Public health can be protected if safety protocols and use of protective equipment is used by both staff and students