"Gloves are essential in clinical settings, but must never replace hand hygiene" - Health Minister
- Think News Online
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The Ministry of Health joined the global health community today in marking World Hand Hygiene Day, with a strong message from Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh emphasizing that while gloves are vital in clinical settings, they must never be seen as a replacement for proper hand hygiene.
Under the theme, “It may be gloves, it’s always hand hygiene,” the event spotlighted the critical role clean hands play in preventing infections and delivering safe care throughout Ghana’s health system.
The Minister stressed the need for consistent hand hygiene practices across all levels—from administrators to frontline workers—especially as Ghana continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aligning with the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan for Infection Prevention and Control (2024–2030), Ghana has made notable strides including the formation of a National IPC Committee, the appointment of a national focal person, and the inclusion of hand hygiene indicators in the DHIMS2 platform.
Looking ahead, Hon. Akandoh announced that by 2026, all regional and teaching hospitals will be mandated to monitor and improve hand hygiene compliance.
He further called on citizens to champion hygiene practices not just in health facilities but also in homes, schools, and communities.
On her part, Dr. Sally-Ann Ohene, Emergency Preparedness and Response, World Health Organization (WHO) raised concern over low global compliance,
She noted that about 70% of healthcare workers fail to routinely practice hand hygiene.
She hinted that about only 50% of surgical teams adhere to proper standards.
The day’s commemoration served as a national reminder that clean hands remain a frontline defense in healthcare—and gloves, while necessary, are no substitute.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith