An increase in serious illnesses caused by group A Streptococcus has recently made Strep A a growing concern in Canada and elsewhere. Here’s why and how it’s spreading, and what symptoms to look for.
Husna Ismail, National Institute for Communicable Diseases y Olga Perovic, National Institute for Communicable Diseases
In hospitals, infection prevention and control cannot be met without a hygienically clean, and safe environment that has an adequate supply of clean running water.
Hand hygiene is a critical part of the response to COVID-19. Washing hands at regular intervals during the day is essential. If water and soap are unavailable, hand sanitisers are an alternative.
Even in hospitals, where hand hygiene is vital, staff don’t always remember to wash their hands. What hope is there for the rest of us? Thankfully, research on handwashing behaviours has some answers.
There are several things Australian schools can do, that involve encouraging better hygiene and social distancing. They could close too, but that’s not always necessary.
Hand washing is a tried and true, scientifically proven preventive strategy that reduces the likelihood of transmitting both viral and bacterial borne diseases.
If hospitals are not thoroughly cleaned, patients may be at higher risk of infection. We tested a new approach to hospital cleaning, and found it could reduce infections and save money.
Yes, bacteria can accumulate on tea towels. But most of the bacteria the researchers found are not responsible for food poisoning or other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Associate Professor in the SAMRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - PRICELESS SA (Priority Cost Effective Lessons in Systems Strengthening South Africa), University of the Witwatersrand
Professor and Programme Director, SA MRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - PRICELESS SA (Priority Cost Effective Lessons in Systems Strengthening South Africa), University of the Witwatersrand