Prevention is better than cure

There is no shortage of products to choose from when it comes to infection prevention and control, but the key difference comes from making the most of those that get the best out of the latest in technology developments.  

Because bacteria are capable of multiplying themselves quickly, and thrive in environments where they can access factors required for growth – warmth, light and water – inadequate cleaning spells danger for healthcare facilities and environments. High levels of dust provides opportunity for growth, and as dust can be easily dispersed through the air, this means airborne infections are particularly liable to spread. 

Although many infections can be combatted by antibiotics, what happens when microbes evolve to become resistant to drugs? Recent reports are suggesting it’s only a matter of time before the threat of bacteria reaches crisis point, and we become immune to the effects of antibiotics against infections which are currently regarded as easily treatable. The danger lies with the fact that bacteria mutate over time, which can lead to antibiotic resistance.  

So what is the answer? As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure, and this is where effective cleaning comes in. The use of products and methods which inhibit the spread of bacteria means less infections, resulting in the protection of vulnerable people and less reliance upon antibiotics.

Arguably one of the biggest modern threats to hospital patients is methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureusis, commonly known as MRSA. One of the main ‘superbugs’, it can be more difficult to treat, because it is already resistant to a number of antibiotics. Therefore it makes sense that one of the best weapons against this disease is high standards of hygiene, applying cleaning systems which utilise new technologies. 

New technologies

Infections are not a new threat. The solution lies in the development of innovative technology, which is transforming the market and cleaning systems, when used effectively. 

Wetrok’s Masslinn cloths, distributed by Jigsaw Cleaning Systems, make use of innovative technology, and contain a material which is infused with natural plant oil specially created to attract dirt and dust, preventing the growth of bacteria in dust particles which could be spread through the air. 

The cloths can be used prior to wet mopping in order to minimise the transfer of germs from one surface to another; particularly important because water is one of the three main components bacteria rely upon in order to thrive. Removing much of the bacteria before water is added at the wet mopping stage means reducing the risk of the spread of germs. 

Modern methodologies deliver a range of benefits, not just high standards in hygiene and infection control. Cleaning systems which require frequent replenishing of water means the creation of surface areas which could be slippery. Relying on products which use less water means fewer accidents will occur as a result of falls – making environments safer.

Making the most of innovative technology generates savings in time and money too. More surface areas can be cleaned in a shorter space of time and less money needs to be spent on materials as a result. New methods and innovations in technology are also at the forefront where sustainability is concerned. Energy can be saved on laundering reusable cloths, with fewer chemicals and water used, and Masslinn material is biodegradable, which means it’s environmentally friendly too.  

The reality is that we must take steps now towards combatting the threat of infection and antibiotic resistance. This can only help to raise the standards of hygiene within healthcare environments by using cleaning systems which utilise the latest in technology.