What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to identify the challenges faced in implementing infection control guidance in primary care during COVID-19 incidents.

April 19, 2026Open Access

Identification of challenges to implementation of infection control guidance in primary care during COVID-19 incidents: Lessons for pandemic planning

Key Points

This research aims to identify the challenges faced in implementing infection control guidance in primary care during COVID-19 incidents.
Analyzed COVID-19 outbreak cases linked to general practitioners (GPs) in South West England.
Examined infection prevention and control (IPC) breaches and staff impacts.
Investigated adaptations made in premises and IT systems, and the importance of tailored guidance.
COVID-19 cases mostly affected staff, disrupting service delivery.
Implementation challenges included various IPC breaches.
Mitigation strategies included adaptations in premises and IT, and effective contingency planning.

Abstract

COVID-19 cases in GP-linked outbreaks in South West England were predominantly identified in staff, impacting service delivery. Some IPC breaches involved implementation challenges. Mitigations span premises/IT adaptations, contingency planning and tailored guidance. This emphasizes the need for specific primary care representation in pandemic planning.

Identification of challenges to implementation of infection control guidance in primary care during COVID-19 incidents: Lessons for pandemic planning

Key Points

Abstract

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