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More on respiratory etiquette 

Dear Editor:

We, along with several other emergency departments in our county, are giving out “respiratory packets” to all patients with respiratory/flu symptom complaints. Our packet is a small, Ziploc bag that contains a mask, some antiseptic hand wipes, tissues, and a disposal bag for the tissues. It also has instructions in English and Spanish about handwashing and basic infection control. We have alcohol-based hand cleanser in the triage room and request that patients “wash their hands” upon arrival at triage. We have gotten a lot of positive comments from members of the community for our attempts to limit the spread of flu and educate the public.

It has been a very successful effort, thanks to our Employee Health staff and to the purchasing manager who secured the supplies and put the packets together quickly.