International Infection Prevention Week is observed every third week of October to educate stakeholders and the general public on the importance of preventing the spread of illnesses and infectious agents.
Poor hospital and hygienic practices rank high among the leading causes of infections. The WHO confirmed that by saying, “No country, no healthcare facility, even within the most advanced and sophisticated healthcare systems, can claim to be free of the problem of H.A.I.s. With more than one-fourth of the world population infected, Hepatitis B ranks as the most common infection. Contact is the most common route of infection. It is divided into two — direct and indirect. The hands are the primary means by which direct contact is made possible. This is why proper handwashing with soap and water is always advised. Generally, people with a weak immune system are more prone to infections than those with strong immunity. Elderly people whose immune cells have worn out, little children whose immune cells have not fully developed, and immune-suppressed individuals, as well as H.I.V. patients, are generally more vulnerable to infections.
Ways to Prevent Infections:
Update your knowledge and understanding of ways and recent trends in preventing infections. Learning about infection prevention and control practices is important in maintaining a safe environment for everyone by reducing the risk of the potential spread of disease.
Attempt to increase the level of your hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water more frequently. Clean surfaces around your house.
Inform relatives, friends, and acquaintances about the need for infection prevention and the advantages of doing so. This will enable them to practice good hygiene at all times.