WHO EPI-WIN Webinar: keeping patients and health workers safe when caring for patients with mpox
- The WHO EPI-WIN webinar emphasized the importance of implementing robust infection prevention and control (IPC) and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) measures in healthcare settings to protect patients and health workers from mpox infection during the ongoing outbreak.
- The webinar highlighted specific IPC measures such as the use of personal protective equipment, patient isolation, hand hygiene, and surveillance, as well as WASH recommendations including adequate sanitation facilities and proper waste management, to prevent virus spread.
- Community engagement and empowerment were identified as vital for effective public health interventions, with a focus on risk communication and empowering communities to participate in health safety practices, guided by tools and resources provided by WHO to support these efforts.
Join Our Newsletter
Get the latest news, updates, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Global Health Organization Highlights Crucial Measures to Combat mpox Outbreak
In a critical webinar held on October 13, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) through its EPI-WIN initiative, emphasized the need for robust infection prevention and control (IPC) and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) measures in healthcare settings to protect both patients and healthcare workers from mpox. This pandemic has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the WHO Director-General, and the organization is taking decisive action to ensure that communities around the world are equipped to handle this emerging threat.
The Importance of IPC and WASH During mpox Outbreaks
The WHO has long recognized the importance of IPC and WASH in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. During the mpox outbreak, these measures are more crucial than ever. The webinar highlighted the WHO guidelines for IPC and WASH in health facilities, focusing on practical strategies that healthcare providers can implement to keep both patients and staff safe.
IPC Measures
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The use of appropriate PPE, including gloves, masks, and gowns, is essential in reducing the risk of transmission.
- Isolation and Cohorting: Isolating patients with mpox and cohorting healthcare workers to prevent cross-infection are key strategies.
- Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers is critical in reducing the spread of the virus.
- Surveillance: Continuous monitoring of patients for symptoms of mpox and rapid testing to identify cases early.
WASH Recommendations
- Sanitation Facilities: Ensuring that healthcare facilities have adequate sanitation facilities, including clean and accessible restrooms, is fundamental.
- Water Quality: Maintaining high standards of water quality to prevent contamination and ensure proper hygiene practices.
- Waste Management: Proper disposal of waste, including infectious materials, is essential to prevent the spread of the virus.
Practical Experiences and Tool Availability
The webinar also featured a country's experience implementing these measures, providing real-world examples of how healthcare facilities can effectively implement IPC and WASH guidelines. This hands-on approach helps in understanding the practical challenges and solutions in different settings.
Available Tools and Resources
- The WHO has made available various tools and resources to support the implementation of IPC and WASH measures. These include guidelines, checklists, and training materials that healthcare providers can use to ensure compliance with best practices.
- The organization has also highlighted the importance of continuous training for healthcare workers on new protocols and procedures to keep them updated.
Community Engagement and Empowerment
Beyond healthcare facilities, community engagement and empowerment play a vital role in preventing the spread of mpox. The WHO recognizes that communities often serve as the first line of defense in detecting unusual health patterns. By involving local leaders and civil society organizations, the WHO ensures that public health interventions are culturally relevant and tailored to the specific needs of each population.
Community Protection
- Risk Communication: Ensuring that community members are informed about protective behaviors is crucial. This includes educating them on how to identify symptoms, reduce stigma, and seek care without fear of discrimination.
- Empowerment: Empowering communities to take control of their health through effective communication and engagement is at the heart of the WHO's strategic preparedness and response plan.
Speakers and Their Contributions
The webinar featured several experts in the field of infectious diseases and public health. Victoria Willet, from the WHO's Health Emergencies, Country Readiness, and Strengthening Unit, IPC and WASH Team, presented an overview of the IPC measures that healthcare workers should adhere to. The session also included insights from a senior technical officer from the Africa CDC, who shared practical experiences from the continent in implementing these measures.
Conclusion
The WHO EPI-WIN webinar on keeping patients and health workers safe when caring for patients with mpox highlights the critical role of IPC and WASH in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. By emphasizing practical strategies, available tools, and community engagement, the WHO is equipping healthcare providers and communities worldwide to handle this pandemic effectively. As mpox continues to spread globally, it is essential that these measures are implemented promptly to protect both the vulnerable and the healthcare workers who are on the frontlines of this battle.
