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Safer emesis container

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A new design for an emesis container is needed in order to completely enclose norovirus particles and prevent the transmission of this common virus during emesis.

Project Overview

The norovirus is a common, rapidly spreading virus that causes acute gastroenteritis and vomiting, or emesis. A person who is infected with norovirus and has emesis will release airborne particles, and as few as 5-20 particles are needed to infect a second person.

Current methods of containing emesis include an emesis basin or ‘kidney basin.’ Neither of these common methods effectively contain the airborne particles caused by the virus. Considering the new safety measures and precautions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, virus transmission concerns are at an all time high.

The team must design an emesis container that utilizes a vacuum to suction airborne norovirus particles into the container using negative pressure. The emesis container should be easily transportable and contain a foldable component for basic storage. Testing should be done using a particle counter with a goal of minimizing transmission by 99 percent.

Team Picture

From left to right: Sam Ferris, William Brown, Tara Boroumand, Grace Johnson
From left to right: Sam Ferris, William Brown, Tara Boroumand, Grace Johnson

Contact Information

Team Members

  • Tara Boroumand - Team Leader
  • Grace Johnson - Communicator
  • Samuel Ferris - BSAC & BWIG
  • William Brown - BPAG

Advisor and Client

  • Prof. Megan McClean - Advisor
  • Mr. Robert Gold - Client

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