Guide on Infection Control How do diseases spread? Diseases that are caused by germs such as bacteria and viruses are spread through: • Contact – When a person’s hand touches someone who has the disease. • Droplets – When an infectious person coughs or sneezes droplets containing viruses are produced. A person who is up to 2 metres away may then breathe in the droplets and become infected. • Airborne – When an infectious person coughs or sneezes very small particles containing viruses can be released into the air. These stay in the air for long periods so other people can breathe them in without being close to the infected person.
How can I protect myself and others? Keep your hands clean. This is the most important thing you can do to help stop the spread of infections. • All patient care areas have a sink with a soap dispenser. • Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are at the foot of each patient’s bed or at the entrance to their room. Always wash your hands: • Before and after visiting patients. • When arriving and leaving the ward. • Before and after preparing food or eating. • After using the toilet.