The Publications Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS) has developed a course to give professionals the tools they need to reduce the spread of viruses in their workplaces. "Chemistry in Practice: Reduce the Spread of Viruses" will contain a variety of modules useful for anyone navigating the newly complex topic of shared public spaces and was designed specifically to support institutions in educating employees returning to in-person work.
The course contains seven 15- to 20-minute modules on how viruses spread, how disinfectants work, how masks and other personal protective equipment provide protection, how vaccines work and more. The course also contains a risk-assessment calculator, tip sheets and a self-assessment capstone module. Each module was designed and reviewed by a panel of five leading experts in the fields of infectious disease, medicinal chemistry and healthcare.
"Everyone in society has experienced some effect from COVID-19. Connecting the fundamental chemical principles of infectious disease to personal actions, such as wearing a mask or handwashing, ensures professionals and the public understand the rationale for government recommendations," says Poonum Satish Korpe, M.D., infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins University. "This will hopefully provide professionals with increased confidence as they return to work, including being more prepared for future virus outbreaks."
The course incorporates guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, videos from the National Institute of Standards and Technology and renowned hospitals, and primary research articles published by ACS Publications and other organizations.
"Now more than ever, it's imperative that professionals in all fields are knowledgeable about the spread of viruses," says James Milne, Ph.D., president, ACS Publications Division. "As the publisher of the most-read and most-cited chemistry journals in the world, ACS is uniquely positioned to help communicate the science of virus prevention. This course will provide invaluable tools to help professionals adapt to challenging new circumstances."
