Ogun Adopts New Infection Prevention, Control Manual to Strengthen Healthcare Safety

The Ogun State Government has formally validated and adopted a new Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Manual to enhance patient safety, protect healthcare workers, and standardise infection control practices across all health facilities in the state.

The announcement was made at a one-day validation and dissemination event held in Abeokuta, the state capital. Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, described the manual as a major milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and safeguard residents’ well-being.

Dr. Coker explained that the manual reflects the state’s commitment to institutionalising evidence-based practices, stressing that robust infection control systems are essential for preventing avoidable infections, maintaining uninterrupted healthcare services, and enhancing outbreak preparedness.

“Events in recent years, from the COVID-19 pandemic to recurring outbreaks of Lassa fever, cholera, mpox, and other infectious diseases have reinforced the reality that robust IPC systems are not optional. They are fundamental to the survival and effectiveness of the entire health sector,” Coker said.

She added, “That is why we have worked assiduously with our partners to develop this manual. It will serve as a uniform reference document for training, supportive supervision, and audits across public and private health facilities.”

The commissioner noted that the manual provides practical, step-by-step guidance for healthcare workers on critical areas, including standard precautions, environmental hygiene, waste management, safe injection practices, and surveillance of healthcare-associated infections.

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In a goodwill message, Dr. Patrick Nguku, Regional Technical Coordinator of the African Field Epidemiology Network, praised Ogun State for prioritising safer healthcare environments.

Represented by epidemiologist Dr. Elizabeth Adedire, he stated that the adoption of the manual reflects leadership and commitment to equipping health workers with clear, evidence-based infection control guidelines.

Dr. Adedire highlighted that the manual offers uniform guidance and practical procedures on hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and isolation protocols, aligning local practices with national and international standards, including WHO recommendations.

Other development partners, including the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the World Health Organisation, and APIN Public Health Initiatives, pledged technical support to ensure the manual’s effective implementation.

The move comes amid ongoing concerns over health worker safety in Nigeria, where hazards such as work-related stress, needle-stick injuries, and physical or verbal assaults remain widespread.

Gaps in infrastructure, insufficient PPE, and inconsistent adherence to safety protocols have left many healthcare professionals inadequately protected, posing risks to both their welfare and the quality of care delivered.