Global report on infection prevention and control 2024

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) cause significant suffering, higher healthcare costs, and hinder quality care. They are difficult to treat, contribute to antimicrobial resistance, and cause premature deaths and disability. The COVID-19 pandemic and other outbreaks highlight the rapid spread of pathogens in healthcare settings. Lack of water, sanitation, and hygiene in healthcare settings affects infection prevention and control practices. A large proportion of infections could be prevented with IPC measures and basic WASH services.