World Hand Hygiene Day was observed worldwide on May 5
The WHO intends to achieve its goal of maintaining a worldwide focus on hand hygiene.
THE City of Joburg has answered the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) call to raise awareness for hand hygiene on World Hand Hygiene Day.
Since its inception in 2009, the WHO’s annual Save Lives: Clean Your Hands campaign aims to impress the importance of good hand hygiene on a global level. The WHO intends to achieve its goal of maintaining a worldwide focus on hand hygiene.
“The power is in our hands really. By washing our hands with soap and water, we can help prevent the spread of so many diseases plaguing our City,” said the City’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Health and Social Development, councillor Mpho Phalatse.
According to the WHO, of every 100 hospitalised patients at any given time, seven in developed countries and 10 in developing countries will acquire at least one healthcare-associated infection. However, up to 70 per cent of these infections could be prevented if healthcare workers follow recommended protocols, which include hand hygiene.
What is sepsis?
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening complication of an infection that occurs when chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight the infection trigger inflammatory responses throughout the body.
This inflammation can cause organ failure or even death. It is estimated to affect more than 30 million patients every year worldwide. While many cases are linked to infections contracted in hospitals, any infection can lead to sepsis.
Preventing the spread of sepsis
Good hand hygiene is a proven, affordable and easy way to prevent sepsis. Just soap in hand can do the trick.
“Residents of the City of Joburg can play an integral role in preventing the spread of germs by thoroughly cleaning their hands frequently,” said MMC Phalatse.
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