SAM ROWLANDS, MS for North Wales is backing a call about the increased importance of hand hygiene to protect patients and prevent the spread of infections.
Mr Rowlands has added his voice to a timely reminder by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board who are calling on everyone visiting hospitals and healthcare settings of the vital importance of hand hygiene.
He said: “I am happy to promote this message from BCUHB as with Winter fast approaching and more respiratory viruses such as flu and COVID-19 circulating it is more important than ever for all of us to take all necessary health precautions.
“Keeping our hands clean is one of the most effective ways of protecting the public, ourselves and vulnerable people, along with having the flu jab and Covid booster.
“These days more than ever people are very aware of the dangers of respiratory viral infections. Regular hand washing and vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself and others around you and ultimately reduce hospital admissions and ease pressure on our already stretched health services in North Wales.”
As we head into the colder months, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is reminding everyone visiting hospitals and healthcare settings of the simple but vital importance of hand hygiene in helping prevent the spread of infections.
Research shows that people touch their face around 16 to 23 times every hour, often without realising it. Each touch provides an opportunity for viruses to enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth — or to be spread to others through contact with surfaces.
Proper hand washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds significantly reduces the chance of passing on germs and can cut the risk of respiratory infections by up to 20%.
Visitors are being reminded to wash or sanitise hands when entering and leaving hospital wards or departments; stay away if you’re feeling unwell, especially if you have cold, flu, or stomach symptoms and help protect vulnerable and elderly patients by following infection prevention guidance.
Clinical Service Lead for Infection Prevention at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Dafydd Williams said: “We’re asking everyone to do their bit – please don’t visit if you’re feeling unwell, use the sanitising stations provided, and avoid sitting on beds.
“It’s about keeping our patients safe, particularly those who are more vulnerable to serious illness.”
