Infection prevention and control (IPC) is everyone’s responsibility. So for International IPC Week (Sunday, 19th to Saturday, 25th October), in line with the theme of inviting everyone to Stand UPPP (Unite, Protect, Prevent, Prevail) for Infection Prevention, here are a few simple ways we can all help reduce the spread of infections. 

• Clean your hands - hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection. 
• Follow respiratory hygiene - cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and dispose of tissues safely. 
• Use antibiotics responsibly - only take antibiotics as prescribed, and discuss their use with healthcare providers. 
• Get vaccinated - stay up to date on recommended vaccines to protect yourself and others. 

Simple steps like these mean that we can all make a real difference in protecting ourselves and one another from infection.