KATRA: International Infection Prevention and Control Week (IIPW) was inaugurated today at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital (SMVDNSH), Kakryal, by Dr Yash Pal Sharma, Facility Director, SMVDNSH.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from doctors, nursing professionals, paramedical staff, administrative personnel and other healthcare workers, reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to patient safety and quality healthcare.
The programme commenced with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolising the collective commitment of healthcare professionals towards creating a safer hospital environment and strengthening infection prevention and control practices.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Sharma highlighted the significance of this year’s theme, “Past, Present, Protected.” He emphasised that the lessons learnt from past experiences and the infection control practices adopted today are crucial for safeguarding patients, healthcare workers and visitors in the future.
He stressed the importance of strict adherence to standard precautions, hand hygiene, appropriate use of personal protective equipment, safe handling of biomedical waste and continuous vigilance in preventing healthcare-associated infections.
Dr Sharma further underscored that infection prevention and control must be an integral part of the hospital’s everyday functioning rather than being limited to a specific campaign or designated team. He called upon all healthcare professionals to demonstrate individual responsibility, discipline and teamwork in maintaining the highest standards of patient safety.
A key highlight of the inaugural programme was the launch of the “Microbes Mukti Rath,” an innovative mobile awareness initiative designed to promote infection prevention and control practices across the hospital. Appreciating the initiative, Dr Sharma commended Dr Beena Jad, Infection Control Professional, and the Infection Control Nurses for conceptualising this creative approach to awareness and education.
Equipped with essential materials and information relating to standard precautions, the Microbes Mukti Rath will move through various corners of the hospital throughout the week, engaging healthcare workers and reinforcing key messages on infection prevention, hand hygiene and safe clinical practices. The initiative aims to take awareness directly to different departments and encourage active participation in building a culture of safety.
Concluding his address, Dr Sharma reiterated that infection prevention and control is not the responsibility of any one individual or department; it is a collective responsibility that requires coordinated teamwork and the active involvement of every healthcare worker. He urged all staff members to participate wholeheartedly in the week-long programme and translate the awareness generated into sustained improvements in daily clinical and operational practices.
The observance of IIPW at SMVDNSH reflects the hospital’s continued commitment to strengthening infection control systems, promoting a culture of safety and ensuring safer healthcare for every patient.
