Winter Preparedness: Updated Infection Prevention Guidance
The National Infection Prevention and Control Manual has been updated, with changes to guidance on transmission-based precautions.
Transmission-based precautions are additional measures used alongside standard infection prevention and control practices to reduce the risk of infection spreading in health and care settings.
The updates are particularly relevant to healthcare professionals preparing for winter, where respiratory and gastrointestinal infections can put additional pressure on services.
What are the changes?
The updated guidance includes:
- Updated terminology for describing how infections spread.
- A revised approach to assessing and categorising the risk of infection transmission.
- Updated guidance on selecting the appropriate face mask and when to wear one.
- Guidance on using a fluid-resistant surgical mask when caring for people who are immunocompromised.
- Guidance on wearing masks for longer periods during times of increased infection transmission, where recommended.
Supporting safe care
Healthcare professionals should review the updated manual to understand the changes and how they apply to their practice. Following the guidance supports the appropriate use of infection prevention and control measures to protect people receiving care, staff, and visitors.
Read the updated guidance and find out more through the Winter Preparedness Campaign.