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MCC Daily Tribune

International Infection Prevention Week (I.I.P.W.)

International Infection Prevention Week (I.I.P.W.) 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. This year, it is held from October 16 to 22. Infections ranging from hospital-acquired to those found in homes or workplaces can compromise healthcare workers’ efforts and have a detrimental impact on public health. Every year, secondary infections cause thousands of health concerns in hospitals. Global pandemics are also sparked by the rapid spread of infectious pathogens. The I.I.P.W.’s goal is to learn more about infection prevention and how it might help improve patient safety.

HOW TO OBSERVE INTERNATIONAL INFECTION PREVENTION WEEK

  1. Read about infection prevention

    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.

  2. Practice personal hygiene

    Attempt to increase the level of your hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water more frequently. Clean surfaces around your house.

  3. Inform about infection prevention

    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.

5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT INFECTIOUS AGENTS

  1. Mostly spread by hand contact

    Almost 80% of infectious agents are spread by the hands.

  2. Remote controls spread them

    Remote controllers are the most common carriers of infectious pathogens and are a key source of illness dissemination.

  3. Keyboards carry more infectious agents

    Phones, computers, and A.T.M. keyboards carry more germs than toilet seats.

  4. Office desks surpasses toilets in germ population

    Uncleaned office desks and tables may contain around ten million bacteria — more than can be found in toilet seats.

  5. Toilet flushing levitates germs

    On flushing toilets, infectious diseases can rise to six feet and cling to the user's clothing.

WHY INTERNATIONAL INFECTION PREVENTION WEEK IS IMPORTANT

  1. It increases our understanding of infections

    Information and presentations made during the week broaden our understanding of infections and how to prevent them. It teaches us to learn to recognize infection risks, and to take action to protect ourselves, no matter the situation.

  2. It compels us to live hygienically

    Activities in the week prick the hygienic conscience of the public and probe them to practice hygienic living. Maintaining hygiene practices reduces the spread of illness and the risk of medical conditions. It also increases self-confidence and positively impacts personal relationships.

  3. It enhances the world's healthiness

    Imbibing the preventive measures suggested during the week helps to improve the general health of people around the world. Good health is central to human happiness and well-being that contributes significantly to prosperity and wealth and even economic progress, as healthy populations are more productive, save more and live longer

Sarah Benedict
MCC Wellness Council
10/17/2022