Damien Hancox, CEO of SpectrumX, explains how a holistic, systemic approach to infection prevention creates a safer, more hygienic environment for both care home residents and staff
A vast range of pathogens inhabit our public places. A recent study in Liverpool, conducted by the Infection Innovation Consortium (iiCON) found pathogens that can cause urinary tract infections, thrush, and gastric ailments on common sites such as handrails, computer keyboards, and even the screens of self-service checkouts in supermarkets
At the end of last year, the study prompted the NHS to start a campaign called Simple Things. The campaign urged Christmas shoppers to be extra vigilant about handwashing and other hygiene measures - handwashing, covering their faces, and keeping a distance - to help lessen the spread of winter illnesses.
The study highlights the infection potential between the wider community and care, and how easy it can be for a person to pick up pathogens on their hands while out shopping, for example, and then unwittingly carry them into a care home as a visitor or staff member.
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