[NPPV Treatment for Neuromuscular Diseases during the COVID-19 Pandemic].

ABSTRACT

A novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged from Wuhan in December 2019 and resulted in a severe outbreak of pneumonia (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted through respiratory droplets produced by coughs or sneezes, as well as aerosols containing viral particles. Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) is widely used to support respiration in patients with neuromuscular diseases. However, NPPV is also an aerosol-generating procedure. Without appropriate precautions, the risk of spreading the virus is high in NPPV users infected with SARS-CoV-2. At home, self-quarantine is effective in protecting caregivers of patients using NPPV, whereas in hospitals, using a negative pressure room is preferred. As SARS-CoV-2 can survive on surfaces for several days, disinfecting the NPPV machine and the items frequently touched in the room is essential. Setting viral filters is useful for preventing virus transmission and keeping the inside of the NPPV machine clean. Caregivers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Furthermore, it should be paid attention to the potential transmission from asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 carriers. During the current pandemic, it is necessary to minimize the risk of transmission among patients using NPPV.