National Press Club Event

The Second Annual International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW) event will be held at the National Press Club on October 11th from 12:00 - 3:00 pm.  For more information, click here .

Background

IIPW is an annual event that shines the spotlight on educating health care workers, health care administrators, legislators and consumers about the importance of reducing the risk of infections.

Held the third week of October each year, International Infection Prevention Week is an opportunity to spread the word about infection prevention through interactive contests, giveaways and information sessions.

This year’s theme is "Infection Prevention--it's in your hands"

Understanding International Infection Prevention Week

In 1986, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the third week in October as National Infection Control Week and called all 'federal, state, and local government agencies, health organizations, communications, media, and people' to take part in educational activities and programs during this designated week.

Since its creation, APIC has continued the tradition of recognizing International Infection Prevention Week. Each year, APIC offers a free online toolkit of useful materials and ideas. In recent years, APIC has collaborated with a corporate sponsor to bring Infection Prevention and Control Professionals (ICPs) a series of educational pamphlets on a variety of important and timely topics.

Utilizing International Infection Prevention Week

APIC members use International Infection Prevention Week through a variety of opportunities through seminars, brochures, press and media outlets, public officials and consumers. This year, APIC is focusing on several issues making an impact on more than just the healthcare industry.  Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridum Difficle (C.Diff), Pandemic Preparedness, and influenza vaccinations are all subjects communities and healthcare facilities have all eyes focused on. ICPs will prepare their facilities and communities on the upcoming influenza season, precautions to be taken, methods to reduce MRSA, and making sure plans are set in place for a pandemic outbreak.

Advancing International Infection Prevention Week

APIC requested a Congressional Resolution proclaiming the week of October 14 – 20 as International Infection Prevention Week.  All 50 states and the District of Columbia have been contacted to proclaim International Infection Prevention Week. Having a national proclamation will allow ICPs the much deserved recognition and assistance in providing timely and useful information for healthcare workers and consumers.

International Infection Prevention Week To learn about its origins and goals, click here. National Press Club Event Hear how leading organizations are eliminating HAIs, click here. States Recognize IIPW View the growing list of states recognizing IIPW.  Click here. Stories from ICPs To read how others have used IIPW to advance the cause of infection prevention, click here. Educational Brochures, Additional Resources and More Information: click here. Obtain IIPW-Themed Merchandise To browse, customize, and/or purchase IIPW-themed products, click here.

Sponsor of the Live Webcast from the National Press Club

For the complete list of sponsors for IIPW 2007, click here.