International Infection Prevention Week

International Infection Prevention Week is taking place this week (13 – 19 October) and aims to shine a light on the importance of infection prevention each year.

Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are becoming increasingly difficult to treat. At the same time, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics contributes to the rising emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Infection prevention and control is therefore key in the battle against AMR and is a key part of our work here at UKHSA. 

As part of UKHSA work on infection prevention, the UKHSA plays a leading role in developing the targets and commitments defined under the AMR National Action Plan (NAP), including participating in consensus groups across the four nations. We also lead the One Health Antibiotic Guardian campaign. 

UKHSA also operates e-Bug, a health education programme that aims to promote positive behaviour change among children and young people to support infection prevention and control efforts. 

If you are looking to promote infection prevention, you can download two videos, one on the e-Bug programme and one on the importance of hand washing from UKHSA Google Drive.