Infection control: public health, clinical effectiveness and education

In this article the author discusses three main issues in infection control: the development of clinical effectiveness, education and public health. Present day infection control practice is based on principles put forward by Florence Nightingale over 100 years ago. Despite medical advances, hospital-acquired infection remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Further research is required to assess how effective present day infection control activities and policies are in reducing the spread of infection. The success of implementing evidence-based practice relies on multidisciplinary, user-friendly educational initiatives. It is imperative that community practitioners are involved in the promotion of infection control. Greater public awareness of infectious agents and the importance of basic hygiene will ensure that infection control cannot remain the exclusive property of hospitals, but must extend to all areas of public health.