Hospitals play an important role in communities’ success in social, economic and health spheres. The theme for this year’s International Infection Prevention Week (Oct. 17-23), make your intention infection prevention, is meant not just for infection preventionists and other health care workers, but also for the communities we serve.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on just how important community members are in stopping the chain of transmission for many preventable diseases. There are many opportunities that hospital personnel can collaborate with community members, such as with small task teams comprised of faith-based leaders, health care workers, elected officials and other respected individuals to educate and share information on an ongoing basis and not just during a sudden outbreak. The inclusion must be wide ensuring that marginalized communities are involved, and relationships are built on trust and confidence. You can start now by informing community members about International Infection Prevention Week and the role infection prevention and control plays in keeping us all healthy.
