Minister of Health and Social Development, Hon. Vincent Wheatley is pleased to announce the commencement of the Quality/Infection Prevention and Control Week (QIPC), which runs from 15 to 28 October 2023. The theme for the 2023 observance is "Celebrating the Fundamentals of Infection Prevention."
The theme calls to return to the foundational practices of infection prevention which will be amplified throughout the days of observance by the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA); which will be hosting a series of enriching activities, aimed at promoting health and safety awareness across the Territory.
While declaring the 2023 Quality/Infection Prevention and Control Week open, Minister Wheatley pointed out that the observance of infection prevention has become timely considering the recent impact of COVID-19 on the Territory.
The Minister stated, "In these times, it's more vital than ever to reinforce the basic practices that have kept our communities safe, not only during the recent pandemic but over the many years." Hon. Wheatley also noted that "IPW 2023 provides the platform for essential infection prevention reminders and further cements the Territory’s commitment to public health and safety."
This year the BVIHSA has merged the observance of Quality Week with Infection Prevention Control Week to create a more impactful awareness campaign. While explaining the decision, Director of Quality at the BVIHSA, Ms. Rhonda Williams pointed out, "A keen focus on quality means ensuring that infection prevention remains at the forefront. This observance is a timely reiteration of our dedication to not only maintaining the highest standard of quality care at the BVIHSA, but also our commitment to remain steadfast in our public health role in the awareness, education, and healthcare of our community."
The Infection Prevention and Control Manager at BVIHSA, Mrs. Rosa Ravariere-Seaman pointed out that the merger of Quality Week with Infection Prevention Week means that for 2023 there will be two weeks of observance. As such Mrs. Ravariere-Seaman expressed excitement about this year’s extended observance stating, "We now have more time to celebrate and renew our commitment to infection prevention. The power of basic hand hygiene and other foundational practices can't be understated; and I am happy that with the extra week we will be able to do more this year to educate and raise awareness in the hope of preventing and controlling infections in our Territory."
Schedule of Events:
• Sunday, October 15: Church service at the Road Town Methodist Church.
• Wednesday, October 18: Environment of Care Rounds and School presentation on Hand Hygiene in Virgin Gorda.
• Thursday, October 19: Webinar on key infection prevention topics
• Monday, October 23: Environment of Care Rounds and Hand Hygiene presentations on Anegada.
• Tuesday, October 24: Hand Hygiene presentations at Elmore Stoutt High School, St. Georges Primary, and Francis Lettsome on Tortola.
• Thursday, October 26: Environment of Care on Jost Van Dyke.
• Friday, October 27: Open house featuring Poster presentations from different Units and a PPE Fashion show to promote the importance and correct usage of personal protective equipment.
• Saturday, October 28: A grand Dinner and Award Ceremony to honor the Quality champions.
The BVI Health Services Authority encourages the community to participate actively in these events, as we unite in our efforts to bolster health and safety throughout the Territory.