NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s Infection Control Manager Elaine Ross and her team work tirelessly to raise awareness of infection and support NHS staff to help reduce infections in clinical settings.
But infections don’t just happen in hospitals. And now summer is here Elaine wants to educate people about what they can do to protect themselves – and their families – to stay safe in warmer weather.
She said: “We all know how to guard against colds and flu in the winter but people can also contract infections in the summer and it’s important to avoid them where possible.
“For example we can quickly become dehydrated in hot weather. This means the bladder isn’t flushed out as much as it should be, bacteria get the chance to grow and this can result in a urinary tract infection. These cause a great deal of discomfort and may have to be treated with antibiotics.
“To guard against this kind of infection people need to drink plenty of water so they are well hydrated. It’s also important that parents make sure children visit the toilet regularly and wipe front to back, especially following a bowel movement. This stops bacteria travelling into the urethra and significantly reduces the risk of infection.”
As well as helping guard against infection water can be a source of problems. Swimming in water contaminated with sewage or that has stagnated can be a cause of gastroenteritis, respiratory problems and ear, nose and throat infections.
Secondary infections from Insect bites and stings are also common. These can occur when a person is bitten or stung but infections can also be introduced if the bite or sting is scratched.
Elaine added: “It is important that we get outside and enjoy the summer, especially when the weather is good. I would advise people to stay hydrated, cook barbeque food properly, make sure salads and cold meats don’t sit in the sun and always wash your hands before eating. Taking these simple precautions should greatly reduce the risk of infection.
“If you do experience any minor infection or other ailment then see your local pharmacist or seek advice from NHS 24 on 111. In the meantime have a brilliant summer and stay safe.”
