NCDC CALLS ON STRONGER HAND HYGIENE CULTURE IN HEALTHCARE.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has stressed the need for hand hygiene, stating that is a moral obligation and public health imperative. 

The Centre made this known on Monday at an event marking the 2025 World Hand Hygiene Day, with the theme "It Might Be Gloves. It’s Always Hand Hygiene" highlighting the importance of hand hygiene beyond just wearing gloves.

The NCDC noted significant progress in infection prevention and control, including implementing the Turn Nigeria Orange movement and establishing the Orange Network. 

Speaking at a commemorative event held at Maitama District Hospital in Abuja, the Head of Disease Prevention and Control at the NCDC, Dr. Tochi Okwor, emphasized that true progress lies in building a culture where hand hygiene is a continuous practice, supported by leadership and patient empowerment.

The event called for all healthcare stakeholders to recommit to hand hygiene as a life-saving practice, with the Medical Director of Maitama District Hospital, Dr. Rita Idemudia, stressing that proper hand hygiene can prevent about 60% of diseases, making it a cost-effective way to reduce infections and promote public health.

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