Medical group marks infection control week Published Oct. 4, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Chamara Cantrell 21st Medical Group PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- The 21st Medical Group is participating in the International Infection Control Week Oct. 14-20. The week emphasizes the importance of protecting patients and health-care workers from infections acquired in health-care settings. Each year, approximately 1.7 million patients develop a hospital-associated infection, and an estimated 99,000 patients die as a direct or indirect result of such infections. In addition, the six million health-care workers in the United States are at risk for acquiring serious and potentially deadly infections (hepatitis B and C, and human immunodeficiency virus infection). When a co-worker comes to work when they are ill, they can pass germs to others by coughing and sneezing. These germs can land and live on surfaces such as desks, telephones, keyboards and hands for two hours or more. The most common way germs are passed is by hand. Keeping your hands clean is one of the best ways to keep from getting sick and spreading illnesses to others. "Infection Control Week is our opportunity to spread the word about infection prevention through interactive giveaways and informational handouts for our community here at Peterson, Schriever, and Cheyenne Mountain," said Capt. Wanda Edwards, 21st MDG Infection Control officer in charge. During International Infection Control Week, the 21st Medical Group's Infection Control Department will sponsor several activities designed to heighten public awareness of and our professional commitment to, the importance of preventing infections in health-care settings. The 21st MDG has also implemented the "It's OK to Ask" hand hygiene program. Patients are the most powerful resource when it comes to changing hand hygiene behavior in a medical facility. Patient empowerment programs increase awareness and encourage patients and their families to ask their healthcare provider to please wash or sanitize their hands prior to any direct contact. Health-care workers, patients and families can contribute to preventing the spread of infection by using the following infection-control measures: Wash your hands often. Wash your hands regularly throughout the day, with soap and warm water and scrub for 15 to 20 seconds. Wash hands immediately after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose or using the washroom. When soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer are a good option. Cover your cough or sneeze. Cough or sneeze into a tissue then throw it away. Wash your hands. You can also cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve. Stay home when you are sick. If you are not feeling well, stay home and take care of yourself. Consult a doctor if needed. Clean your work area often. Clean your work area often including telephones, keyboards and desks by using disinfectant wipes. Increase disinfection practices when there is an increase of illness in the workplace. Get your annual flu shot. Get an annual flu shot before the flu season begins. Use antibiotics wisely. Antibiotics are not intended to be used to fight against viruses such as colds and the flu. Taking unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful. Antibiotics should be taken until completed as prescribed by your doctor. Adapt a healthy lifestyle. Be physically active, manage your stress and practice healthy eating habits. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout the year will reduce your risk of becoming ill.