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Health protection

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC)

No one likes feeling unwell. Infection control helps prevent or stop the spread of germs so fewer people get sick. Gloucestershire County Council works with other healthcare organisations to promote good infection prevention and control (IPC) and respond to local outbreaks. We support schools, early years settings, and social care services such as care homes by sharing the best ways to keep people well.

There are simple steps you can take to protect yourself and others from infections like coughs, colds, flu, COVID-19 and other viruses:

  • Wash your hands regularly and follow the advice: “Catch it, Bin it, Kill it”
  • Try to stay at home if you feel unwell
  • Wipe down your desk space, including keyboards, phones, TV remotes and other surfaces
  • Face masks are optional, but they can help reduce the spread of germs

Vaccines

Vaccination is an important part of good infection prevention and control. Vaccines protect against preventable infectious diseases, including respiratory illnesses. Staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, including booster and seasonal doses, helps reduce your risk.

Are you up to date with your vaccines? Visit the NHS website for information on which vaccines you may need and when to have them.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global issue that affects everyone. AMR happens when germs evolve to survive treatments like antibiotics. When standard treatments stop working, infections can spread more easily and become harder to treat.

Read more about AMR in our Joint Strategic Needs Assessment on Inform Gloucestershire.

Covid-19

You can check the latest Government guidance and information about COVID-19 by visiting the Government website.

Here are a few useful pages: