The 2019 theme for the International Infection Prevention Week is Vaccines are Everybody’s Business.
There are many different germs inside and outside of the healthcare setting. These germs spread in many different ways. For example, germs can spread from person to person and from objects to people. To stop germs from infecting people, healthcare professionals, patients and families need to work together to stay healthy.
It takes a chain reaction of events for infections to spread to others. The way to stop germs from spreading is by interrupting the chain. When you go into a hospital or other healthcare setting to receive care, you become vulnerable to catching infections. But the good news is that patients, their families and visitors can take steps to prevent infections by simply knowing the top infection prevention basics.
• Speak up for your care
• Keeping your hands clean
• Ask about safe injection practices
• Ask to have your room or equipment cleaned
• Ask questions about your medications
• Ask about vaccines you need to stay healthy
• Become familiar with healthcare-associated infections