Aspirus Health Promotes Infection Prevention Week 2024: Moving the Needle by Breaking the Cycle
“Hand hygiene is the frontline defense against the spread of infections.”
WAUSAU, Wis. – Aspirus Health is proud to support Infection Prevention Week 2024, observed from October 13-19. This year’s theme, “Moving the Needle on Infection Prevention,” focuses on advancing infection control practices. Central to this effort is the concept of breaking the cycle of infection, a crucial strategy in reducing the spread of diseases in health care settings and the community.
Breaking the cycle of infection involves disrupting the chain of events that allow infections to spread. By improving hand hygiene, ensuring responsible antibiotic use, and promoting timely vaccinations, the risk of infection can be significantly reduced.
“Infection prevention is about making small, impactful changes that add up,” said Tim Holzem, Infection Prevention Coordinator at Aspirus. “Our work involves identifying trends, like increases in MRSA, and working with care teams to stop these infections before they become widespread. By breaking the cycle, we’re able to move the needle and protect our patients and staff from preventable infections.”
Holzem also emphasized the importance of collaboration in infection prevention. “We’re really partners behind the scenes,” he noted. “Our role is to work closely with frontline health care workers, helping them understand and implement the best practices to keep infections under control. It’s a team effort that’s essential for patient safety.”
Hand hygiene remains a cornerstone of infection prevention efforts. “Hand hygiene is the frontline defense against the spread of infections,” Holzem explained.
As Infection Prevention Week 2024 unfolds, Aspirus Health encourages everyone to contribute to breaking the cycle of infection. Simple actions can lead to significant improvements in public health, helping to ensure safer, healthier communities.
