The guidelines recommend that California dentists take a medical history, including travel history, from any patients with symptoms of a possible viral infection. Dentists have also been advised to use standard precautions and physical barriers, such as masks, gloves and gowns. The advisory was also intended to create “a heightened sense of awareness” about the potential dangers, said Doug Elmets, a spokesman for the group.
To date Ebola has killed around 4,500 people across the globe. One Ebola victim treated in the United States has died, and two nurses have contracted the disease and are being watched.
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