An Infection Control Programme in Primary Schools and the Wider Public Health Impact

Abstract

Young schoolchildren are recognised as being at particular risk of contracting and transmitting enteric infection. (Finn and Crook, 1998/1999).

A collaborative infection control programme was designed, piloted and evaluated in six primary schools in conjunction with the local authority's public protection and education departments and the local health protection team. These pilots helped to inform the programme rolled out to all primary and special needs schools during 2002 to 2003.

A baseline sanitation survey was undertaken with the scores used to prioritise schools for infection control audits. High priority schools were audited. Medium and low priority schools were sent self-assessment packs, the results of which were subsequently validated.

Risks were communicated to each school at the time of visit with a follow-up written report. All schools received advice and support on infection control, including recommendations for improvements, updated policies and supporting educational materials.

Key findings from the programme were lack of adequate facilities for handwashing such as soap, paper towels and hot water; ineffective cleaning programmes and working practices, including awareness of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) (1999) and waste disposal.

Infection control guidelines have been produced for schools, together with an ongoing programme of infection control follow-up audits.