The World Health Organization joined the Ministry of Health (MoH) and partners to commemorate World Hand Hygiene Day (WHHD), reinforcing the critical role of hand hygiene in preventing infections and ensuring patient safety within healthcare settings.
This year’s theme “It may be gloves, it is always hand hygiene” highlights the ongoing need for proper hand hygiene practices—even when gloves are used.
While gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers, their overuse can significantly contribute to healthcare waste. The message emphasizes appropriate glove use only when indicated, and consistent hand hygiene as an effective and sustainable measure to reduce infection and protect health workers and patients.
Speaking at the launch of the commemoration, Honorable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, underscored Ghana’s commitment to prioritizing Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) through the National IPC Strategy, which is aligned with the WHO Global Action Plan and Monitoring Framework for IPC 2024-2030. He noted the achievement of key milestones, including the appointment of a National IPC focal person and the establishment of the National IPC Committee, which coordinates implementation efforts.
“Hand hygiene is a simple, low-cost intervention that saves lives, reduces healthcare-associated infections and protects both patients and health care providers”, said Mr Akandoh.
Dr Sally-Ann Ohene, WHO’s Country Preparedness and IHR Officer, speaking on behalf of the WHO Representative , emphasized the importance of WHO’s ‘My 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene’—a framework guiding when healthcare workers should clean their hands:
Before touching a patient
Before a clean or aseptic procedure
After body fluid exposure risk
After touching a patient
After touching patient surroundings
“These are critical, life-saving actions that must be practiced every day of the year,” she noted.
Dr Serwah Amoah, a member of the National IPC Committee, presented on the IPC landscape in Ghana and called for increased investment in hand hygiene logistics in health facilities to ensure compliance and adherence with national standards.
The event brought together MoH Directors, representatives of health agencies and development partners, students from health training institutions, IPC champions, and media. In a practical and symbolic act of leadership, the Minister of Health demonstrated proper handwashing technique—earning applause from participants and reinforcing the importance of leading by example.
WHO provided both technical and financial support for the development of Ghana’s IPC strategy, in line with global standards. The celebration of WHHD reaffirms the collective commitment to protect healthcare workers, patients, and communities through strengthened infection prevention and control systems.
For Additional Information or to Request Interviews, Please contact:Abdul-Lahie Abdul-Rahim NaaCommunications OfficerWHO Ghana Country OfficeEmail: abdullahiea [at] who.int (abdullahiea[at]who[dot]int)Tel: +233 20 196 2393
