HOSPITALS and treatment centers of the Department of Health (DOH) in the Ilocos region conducted a week-long infection prevention and control (IPC) activity from July 8-12, 2024 in various areas as part of the celebration of the “Infection Prevention Control Week which highlights the importance of preventing the spread of diseases.
Among the participants were the Treatment and Rehabilitation Center – Dagupan (TRC-Dagupan), Treatment and Rehabilitation Center – La Union (TRC-La Union), Ilocos Treatment and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC), Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) and the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMHMC).
The activity targeted schools, communities including drug treatment and rehabilitation facilities and persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) to increase their awareness and understanding on the importance of handwashing with soap which is the most effective and affordable way to prevent diseases.
A team of health professionals discussed the proper hand-washing technique and provided essential information on when and how often to wash hands.
A “Kapihan sa DOH” with the media was also conducted to raise awareness about healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and promote effective prevention strategies.
Hygiene kits were also distributed to participants during the activities.
“The DOH including its hospitals and treatment centers are committed to promoting good hand hygiene practices among its personnel and sharing these good practices to the community,” Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco stated.
“Mahalaga na ang bawat isa sa atin ay malaman ang tamang pamamaraan ng paghuhugas ng kamay upang ito ay makasanayan at maipamahagi upang makaiwas sa mga mikrobyng nagdadala ng sakit,” she added.
“Raising awareness and educating people on the importance of IPC prevents the spread of infectious diseases and achieves quality health care delivery.”
“It also promotes the development of appropriate behaviors toward infectious disease prevention and control such as regular hand washing, appropriate use of face-masks and social distancing,” Sydiongco emphasized.
This year’s IPC Week event highlights the critical role of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) as the health department moves beyond the pandemic.
This year’s theme: “Together, WE stand against HAI (Healthcare-Associated Infections) : Protecting Everyone!” highlights the concerted efforts of the health sector and the community to prevent infection.
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