AHPGS(Accreditation Agency in Health and Social Sciences)
05 May 2025 Monday
May 5 – World Hand Hygiene Day: The First Step in Preventing Infections
Istanbul Gelisim University Faculty of Health Sciences Vice Dean Assoc. Prof. Dr. Neşe KISKAÇ shared information about World Hang Hygiene Day.
World Hand Hygiene Day, celebrated each year on May 5th under the initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to emphasize the vital role of hand hygiene in preventing infections, particularly in healthcare settings. This global awareness day focuses on increasing consciousness among healthcare professionals and the public about the importance of proper hand hygiene.
Hand hygiene is regarded as the cornerstone of infection prevention and control and is recognized as one of the most effective methods to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), especially in hospitals, intensive care units, and surgical settings. As part of WHO’s “SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands” campaign, this initiative not only promotes patient safety but also reinforces the responsibility of healthcare workers in maintaining hygiene standards.
Scientific evidence indicates that proper handwashing techniques, when performed at appropriate moments, can reduce the transmission of bacteria and viruses by 40% to 60%. However, a noticeable gap still exists between knowledge and actual behavior regarding hand hygiene. Therefore, continuous training and institutional support for healthcare workers—particularly nurses, physicians, and support staff—are essential.
The theme for World Hand Hygiene Day 2025 is "Clean Hands, A United Front Against Antimicrobial Resistance," which draws attention to the critical role of hand hygiene in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance. Educational sessions, simulation-based practices, and visual campaigns are being implemented across healthcare institutions to enhance public awareness.
In conclusion, hand hygiene is not only an individual responsibility but a collective duty. Conscious actions by patients, healthcare professionals, and visitors significantly improve the quality of care and prevent the spread of infectious diseases. May 5th serves as a powerful reminder to renew our commitment to hand hygiene and patient safety.
