International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW), observed from October 13–19, 2024, promotes awareness and action to prevent infections worldwide. Established in 1986, IIPW underscores the importance of infection prevention in healthcare settings and beyond, aiming to reduce the spread of infectious diseases, particularly within hospitals and clinics. This annual observance, led by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), emphasizes strategies that healthcare professionals and the public can adopt to protect against infections.
The theme for IIPW 2024 focuses on “Empowering Health Workers,” highlighting the role of healthcare professionals in practicing and promoting rigorous infection control methods. Topics covered include hand hygiene, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and sterilization of medical equipment. Educational initiatives and activities encourage healthcare facilities to engage in infection prevention training, emphasizing adherence to guidelines that reduce transmission risks for both patients and staff.
IIPW also aims to educate the general public on the significance of infection prevention practices, including handwashing, vaccinations, and responsible antibiotic use. By raising awareness, IIPW helps foster a culture of safety and health resilience, working to lower infection rates and enhance patient care quality across healthcare systems globally.