FORT LEE, Va.  –  
International Infection Prevention Week takes place this year from October 17-23, 2020, and is organized by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology. Because infection prevention is more important than ever in the battle against a global pandemic and to keep the world safe from healthcare-associated infections and outbreaks, this year’s theme is Make Your Intention Infection Prevention.

APIC wants to emphasize the role that individuals can play in the health and safety of their community by showcasing the science behind infection prevention, the importance of countering mis-information, and to inspire the world’s future Infection Preventionist to join the fight.



IPs use their training and skills to make sure that everyone (healthcare staff and patients) are doing the right things to prevent the spread of germs.

Within the clinic, Kenner Army Health Clinic will be engaging the community by hosting several displays located in the pharmacy waiting area and main entrance. At these locations there will be Information hand-outs, games, and giveaways.
Kenner is asking for everyone—healthcare personnel, patients, and families—to celebrate our IPs and the infection prevention and control community for their bravery and expertise in the fight against COVID-19.

“I’d like to ask you to join us in encouraging everybody—healthcare personnel, patients, and families—to celebrate the bravery and expertise the infection prevention and control community has shown before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Deneen Archer, Patient Safety/Infection Preventionists at Kenner.

This week was established in 1986 by President Ronald Reagan. The Association for Professionals in Infection Control has spearheaded the annual effort to highlight the importance of infection prevention among healthcare professionals, administrators, legislators, and consumers.

Over the years, this week of recognition has vastly expanded to every corner of the globe. Observing IIPW gives the opportunity to bring awareness to patients to promote safer healthcare practices and reduced threat of healthcare-associated infections.
There will be free downloadable resources and activities for patients and families, as well as, fact sheets on infection prevention basics, settings of care, and more. The Infection Prevention and You website is accessible here: www.apic.org/infectionpreventionandyou.