International Infection Prevention Week

As part of ‘International Infection Prevention Week’, we wanted to highlight how crucial infection prevention and control are within healthcare facilities, including care homes and hospitals. To do this, we are sharing some vital infection-related facts and stats.

1. On average, around 1 in 10 patients are affected by HCAIs globally. 

1. In Europe alone, some 9 million HCAIs occur every year in acute and long-term care facilities; they lead to 25 million extra hospital days and cost 13-24 billion euros.

1. The single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections is handwashing with soap and water.

1. Regular decontamination of surfaces and sterilisation of reusable medical equipment prevents lingering bacteria from thriving.

1. Covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing (using a tissue or the crook of your elbow) and safely disposing of used tissues limits airborne transmission.

1. Visible cleanliness does not mean a device is sterile. Reusable equipment must follow strict decontamination and sterilisation protocols.

1. While the common cold or flu spikes in the winter, pathogens like norovirus can also easily survive and spread in cold temperatures.

1. The four most common infections in care homes are UTIs, respiratory infections, skin infections, and gastrointestinal bugs.

1. Adults touch their face 23 times per hour! Which is why hand washing is paramount in stopping the spread of infections. 

1. The survival time for the Norovirus pathogen on surfaces is 8 hours to 28 days, depending on temperatures. 

Contact our team today and find out how we can help with your infection prevention and control needs and create a safer environment for everyone.