Hand Hygiene: The Best Defense Against Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance
Hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to prevent infections. Experts at an event in Peshawar stressed that proper handwashing not only protects individuals but also helps reduce antimicrobial resistance. The ceremony, held on Global Handwashing Day, aimed to raise awareness about maintaining hygiene in healthcare and daily life.
Promoting Hygiene and Safety in Healthcare
Dr. Ghazala Zarin Afridi, chairperson of the Infection Prevention and Control Programme at the Institute of Kidney Diseases (IKD), Hayatabad Medical Complex, said the event reflected the institute’s ongoing commitment to safety and hygiene. She explained that clean hands can save lives by preventing the spread of harmful bacteria. In addition, she called for continuous education sessions and collaboration between departments to ensure strong infection control practices.
The event gathered healthcare professionals who shared strategies to strengthen infection prevention. Dr. Zahid Khattak from HMC’s microbiology department discussed the global impact of healthcare-related infections and effective measures to tackle antimicrobial resistance.
Fighting Antimicrobial Resistance
Dr. Zubeda Irshad from the Burns and Plastic Surgery Centre highlighted the need for strict hygiene protocols in high-risk hospital areas. She said that small steps like proper handwashing could make a big difference in patient safety. Similarly, Dr. Mohammad Waqar from the orthopaedic surgery department explained that antibiotic misuse and overuse contribute to resistance, making infections harder to treat.
Therefore, experts urged both healthcare workers and the public to practice proper hand hygiene daily. It remains a simple, affordable, and life-saving habit that protects everyone
