NIPCM

Winter brings an increase in respiratory viruses such as flu, RSV and COVID-19. Practising good respiratory hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect patients, residents, colleagues, and your family.

Small actions make a big difference. By keeping up good respiratory hygiene, we can all help reduce Winter outbreaks and keep care settings safer.

Further information, including supporting materials such as respiratory infection and gastrointestinal infection posters and campaign imaging, can be found in the Winter Preparedness Campaign webpage

Remember the basics

• Catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue or your inner elbow.
• Bin tissues immediately after use.
• Wash or sanitise hands after coughing, sneezing, or touching your face.
• Follow appropriate guidance for when and what PPE to wear when a patient or resident has a known or suspected infection.
• Report illness to your line manager.
• Stay home if you feel unwell and follow return-to-work guidance.

How you can help

• Share campaign resources widely across your local networks for example via news bulletins and communication channels.
• Use the materials provided to raise awareness among staff for example posters, newsletters, infographics, email signatures.
• Encourage staff to access the Winter preparedness Campaign webpage.