4 Infection prevention and control (IPC) The key IPC principles to consider and the precautions for safely delivering COVID-19 vaccines are described below. These principles and recommendations have been derived from the World Health Organization (WHO) guidance.1 This guidance is intended for policy makers, immunisation programmes and IPC Lead for vaccination delivery venues. This section covers the IPC measures required to support all vaccination activities, and as such, some aspects may also be covered in other sections of the operating guidelines.
4.1 Key IPC principles for COVID-19 vaccine deployment Standard precautions to be applied during any vaccination activity are also valid for COVID-19 vaccine delivery, considering the population to be vaccinated consists of individuals not presenting signs and symptoms of infection. Perform regular environmental cleaning and disinfection of areas and sites where vaccination occurs at least twice daily with special attention to high touch surfaces. Use recommended detergent and disinfectant products. Additional IPC precautions may be necessary in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce the risk of transmission (such as PPE usage in line with IPC guidelines per the Alert Level). It is imperative health workers are provided with specific training and the public is provided with targeted information regarding IPC measures for safe COVID-19 vaccine delivery. A clean, hygienic, and well-ventilated environment, with appropriate waste management and adequate spaces to facilitate best IPC practices (such as physical distancing) are necessary for safe COVID-19 vaccination activities. National guidance and protocols for IPC measures should be consulted and adhered to.
1
Aide-Memoire Infection prevention and control (IPC) principles and procedures for COVID-19 vaccination activities, 15 January 2021. https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/338715 Version 30 Page 25
