Each of us - patients, families, and healthcare personnel - have an important role to play a role in keeping patients safe from infection. First and foremost, know the basics of infection prevention. Whether in a healthcare facility or in the community, there are things healthcare professionals, patients, and family members can do to stay safe from infections.
Infection prevention and control has always been an important part of public health and safety. But as the global fight against COVID-19 rages on, the world’s communities are reminded just how important it is.
“Infection prevention is critically important in controlling the spread of infectious diseases and ensuring continuity of health services by protecting patients and visitors. We encourage you to foster culture of safety by washing your hands, taking a flu shot, staying home if you are sick and maintaining good personal hygiene,” said Hospital Infection Control Head, Leni B. Gracia in a social media campaign by the Hamad Medical Corporation to coincide with Qatar Infection Control Week.
“Don’t forget that infection prevention and control starts from me and you,” she said.
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and health sector institutions are observing Qatar Infection Control Week from October 18-24, under the slogan, ‘Breaking the Infection Chain’. The theme and activities during the week highlight that COVID-19 has shown the world what is always known — infection preventionists are essential to keeping the world safe. In addition to all the usual suspects including healthcare-associated infections, resurgence in measles outbreaks and flu season.
According to Director of the Strategic Planning and Performance Department at MoPH, Hoda Amer Al Kathiri, due to COVID-19 pandemic challenges, this year’s events will focus on extending appreciation to infection prevention specialists for their role in maintaining health and safety.
All health facilities in the country participate in the celebration by spreading awareness of importance of the role of infection prevention specialists. The observance coincides with the International Infection Prevention Week, International Infection Prevention Week, an annual awareness campaign which has been celebrated since 1986,
