Importance of Healthy Habits During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspective and Suggestions

Numerous preventive measures of social distancing and lockdowns have been imposed by governments and health authorities in order to reduce severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission. This, in turn, has significantly impacted upon physical activity levels and other healthy habits in different countries around the globe, which may precipitate several negative sequalae on the health of the world population. Here, we briefly discuss the current scientific evidence on the subject and propose relevant recommendations moving forwards.

Anatomical Education during Covid-19: Ramifications for Students' Learning

Introduction: The world is experiencing an ongoing and serious pandemic, and as both an anatomy student and anatomy demonstrator, I felt it necessary to comment on the impact this pandemic has had and is having on students' anatomical education, and on my concerns about the implications it might have on the future of current anatomy students. Methods: In the form of an extended Letter to the Editor, I present some of my reflections on the above matter and suggest a number of points for anatomy students, demonstrators and institutions to consider as we move forwards. Results: When students lost access to dissection rooms, they lost access not only to cadavers, but also to a range of other optimal learning modalities: prosections, models, pathology specimens, skeletons, and others. Previous authors have highlighted that the modern medical curriculum already restricts students' exposure to anatomy, and indeed this pandemic has further shortened the contact time current students have received. As a result, current anatomy students are being taught anatomy without access to practical-based learning materials, be that cadavers, prosections, or models. Conclusion: Whilst the educational disruption caused by the pandemic is clearly severe, it also presents an opportunity for pedagogical evolution and innovation. Here, I have offered a host of recommendations to those involved in anatomical education. The lasting impacts of the pandemic are still unknown, but the anatomical community has responded creatively and adaptively.

Recommendations For Safe Paediatric Dental Practices During The Covid-19 Pandemic: An Update

Since the emergence of the coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19), evidence surrounding the potential implications of good oral healthcare has become an important area of research [Paglia, 2020]. In light of this, appropriate guidance for dental professionals to protect both themselves and their patients against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become a critical topic. In dentistry, viral spread is believed to occur mainly via the droplets and aerosols produced during procedures in the oral cavity [Meister et al., 2020;Benzian et al., 2021]. However, the evidence on this issue is still controversial and disputed [Shamsoddin et al., 2021]. Having access to safe environments for dental practice has been one of the most significant concerns for parents, many of whom have intentionally avoided dental care for their children (even in cases of oral trauma) during the pandemic [Campagnaro et al., 2020]. This may prove to be a precursor for a rise in paediatric dental care demand in the near future. Here, we propose updated recommendations for safe dental practices in children, in both outpatient and hospital settings, with a view to minimise the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in paediatric patients and healthcare professionals during their dental care. © 2021,European Journal of Paediatric Dentistry.All Rights Reserved.