This year’s theme has been labelled timely in consideration of the battle against the global COVID 19 pandemic. The theme, which is focused on infection prevention, is a demonstration of commitment’s to keep the world safe from healthcare-associated outbreaks.

As COVID-19 continues, attention is placed on infection prevention which is a crucial part of the fight to keep the [British] Virgin Islands safe and healthy, BVIHSA said in a press release on October 15, 2021.

Infection Preventionists @ frontline of not just COVID 19 pandemic

During the 2021 observance, the Infection Prevention and Control community, which protects millions of persons from surges in healthcare-associated infections will be highlighted. These Infection Preventionists are at the frontline of not just the COVID 19 pandemic, but in the prevention of measles outbreaks, flu outbreaks every season, and many other day-to-day infectious battles.

For the 2021 Infection Prevention Week, the Committee of the BVIHSA is aiming to showcase the role that individuals can play in the health and safety of our Territory. This will be done by spotlighting the science behind infection prevention, the importance of countering misinformation, as well as the fostering and encouraging of future Infection Preventionists.

‘Break the chain’

While explaining this year’s theme Infection Prevention and Control Manager Mrs Rosa RavariereSeaman pointed out that everyone has a part to play in the thwarting of outbreaks. She noted that the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is recommending an inclusive approach to infection prevention.

“Healthcare professionals and consumers can ‘break the chain’ by practicing, staying current on all recommended vaccines (including annual flu vaccines), covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and using antibiotics wisely to prevent antibiotic resistance. Please ‘Make Your Intention Infection Prevention,’” Mrs Ravariere-Seaman stated.

Annually, Infection Prevention Week is organised by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, and hosted locally by the Infection Prevention and Control Unit of the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority.