As part of International Infection Prevention Week, Wirral Community Health and Care (WCHC) and Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) Trusts are reminding local people that simple everyday actions can play a big role in preventing the spread of infections and helping protect family, friends and communities, particularly during the winter months.
Infections caused by viruses and bacteria can spread easily, leading to illnesses such as colds, flu, stomach bugs and other infections. While many infections are mild, they can be more serious for babies, older people and those with underlying health conditions.
The Trusts are encouraging everyone to take a few simple precautions to reduce the risk of infection and help keep themselves and others healthy.
Clean hands save lives
One of the most effective ways to stop infections spreading is to clean your hands regularly.
Hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water:
- After using the toilet
- Before eating
- Before preparing food
Hands should be dried well after washing. If soap and water are not available, alcohol hand rub can be used, although this should not be used if you have diarrhoea.
Catch it, Bin it, Kill it
Respiratory infections spread easily through coughs and sneezes. People are encouraged to:
- Catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue
- Put used tissues straight into a bin
- Clean their hands afterwards
Stay at home when you’re unwell
If you are feeling unwell, staying away from others until you are well enough to return to your normal activities can help prevent infections being passed on.
People who are unwell should also drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Keep vaccinations up to date
Vaccinations remain one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others from many infectious diseases. For those eligible, now is the time to get your flu and Covid vaccinations – visit the NHS England website to find out who needs the vaccine/s and where to get them.
Anyone who is unsure whether their vaccinations are up to date should contact their GP practice.
Chris Douglas, Chief Nursing Officer for WUTH and WCHC, said:
“International Infection Prevention Week is an opportunity to remind everyone that preventing infections is something we can all help with. Simple actions can make a real difference. As we head into winter, these small steps can help protect the most vulnerable people in our communities and hospital and reduce the spread of infection.”
If you are worried that you or someone you care for may have an infection, contact your GP, pharmacist or NHS 111 for advice. In an emergency, call 999.
For more information about preventing infections, speak to your GP or pharmacist.
Help keep hospitals safe for everyone
Anyone visiting a hospital can also play an important role in preventing infections from spreading.
Visitors are encouraged to clean their hands before entering and leaving wards and clinical areas and to use the hand hygiene facilities provided throughout hospital buildings.
People should also avoid visiting if they are feeling unwell or have recently experienced symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, cold or flu-like illnesses, as infections can spread quickly in healthcare settings and pose a serious risk to vulnerable patients.
To help maintain a clean and safe care environment, visitors are asked to keep personal belongings to a minimum and avoid bringing large numbers of bags and other items onto wards. Excess belongings can clutter patient bays, make cleaning more difficult and increase the number of surfaces where germs can collect.
For more information on preventing the spread of infection, see the information leaflet.
