As the healthcare industry focuses on the pandemic and infection control, the World Health Organization (WHO) reminds providers that Hand Hygiene Day is May 5. The campaign recognizes that handwashing is one of the most effective actions anyone can take to reduce the spread of pathogens and prevent infections, including the COVID-19 virus.
According to WHO, two in five healthcare facilities lack hand hygiene facilities at the point of care even though simple and low-cost solutions are available. The 2020 campaign aims to make hand hygiene a global priority, inspire hand hygiene and behavior change, and engage with healthcare workers in their role in clean care and the prevention of infections.
WHO also is calling upon policymakers to provide safe work environments for nurses and improve staffing levels. Additionally, the campaign is calling on infection control leaders to empower nurses and midwives in providing clean care. It is contributing to the United Nations Secretary General’s Global Call to Action on WASH in healthcare facilities as well.
On May 5, WHO is inviting everyone to celebrate Hand Hygiene Day by:
- Sharing promotional campaign materials available on its website
- Taking part in its #SafeHands Challenge
- Clapping for nurses and midwives at noon on May 5 to thank them for clean care
- Share photos and videos on social media with the hashtags #HandHygiene and #SupportNursesandMidwives
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