International Infection Prevention Week

October 2023

October 15-21 is International Infection Prevention Week. Observed each third week of October, it brings attention to the role infection prevention plays in improving patient safety. This year’s theme is “Celebrate the Fundamentals of Infection Prevention“! 🎉

For individuals, the following tips can help reduce the spread of infection:

• Wash your hands – Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and rub the soap into the backs and palms of your hands as well as your wrists. Rinse well under running water, then dry your hands and wrists thoroughly.
• Cover a cough or Stay home if you are sick – Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If one isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hand.
• Don’t pick at healing wounds
• Make sure your vaccinations are up to date
• Know if antibiotics are appropriate

In addition to the tips above, health care professionals help keep infection at bay with the following:

• Using gloves, masks and protective clothing.
• Following facility guidelines when dealing with blood or contaminated items.
• Keep patient’s environment and equipment clean
• Keeping skin around wound or incision dressings clean and dry
• Use Safe Injection Practices
• Educate patients on infection prevention

For more information on how to participate in International Infection Prevention Week, click here.

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