HandiCheck™ is proud to spotlight the critical role that hand hygiene plays in the fight against drug-resistant infections as part of the World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week. AMR is a pressing global health threat, with predictions from the World Health Organization (WHO) that, if left unchecked, it could surpass cancer as the leading cause of death by 2050, claiming up to 10 million lives annually worldwide.
The Growing Crisis of Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to withstand treatments that once effectively controlled or eliminated them. This resistance renders antibiotics and other antimicrobials less effective, making infections harder, and sometimes impossible, to treat. According to Antibiotic Research UK in the UK alone, AMR contributes to around 7,600 deaths each year, a toll comparable to that of influenza and pneumonia combined.
The spread of AMR is driven by multiple factors, including overuse and misuse of antibiotics in healthcare and agriculture, inadequate infection control measures, and a lack of awareness around simple preventative practices. Each day in England, 148 people are diagnosed with an antibiotic-resistant infection, and this growing statistic underscores the urgent need for widespread action (source: Antibiotic Research UK).
The Power of Hand Hygiene in Reducing AMR
Hand hygiene is one of the simplest, yet most powerful defences against the spread of drug-resistant infections. Effective handwashing can prevent the transmission of pathogens and reduce the incidence of infections, thereby decreasing the need for antibiotics. Fewer antibiotic treatments lead to a slower development of resistance, directly impacting the trajectory of AMR on a global scale.
This is where HandiCheck steps in, providing an innovative solution to ensure best practices in handwashing. Our tool empowers individuals and organisations to track, verify, and improve hand hygiene compliance through real-time, data-driven feedback. By integrating easy-to-understand insights, HandiCheck supports organisations in fostering a culture of cleanliness, essential in settings where infection control is critical, such as healthcare facilities, food services, and public institutions.
Why Handwashing Matters More Than Ever
According to the English Surveillance Programme for Antimicrobial Utilisation and Resistance (ESPAUR) published by the UK Health Security Agency, routine medical procedures like surgery and cancer treatments would be much riskier without effective antibiotics. The spread of resistant pathogens could compromise these procedures and make common infections life-threatening. Reliable handwashing habits reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), which are often the source of resistant bacteria, including pathogens like E. coli, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and other hospital-acquired infections (source: Antibiotic Research UK).
Despite its simplicity, handwashing is often overlooked. WHO studies show that proper hand hygiene can reduce respiratory illnesses by 16-21% and gastrointestinal infections by 31%. The ripple effect of such reductions is substantial, alleviating pressure on healthcare systems and preventing the spread of drug-resistant bacteria in communities.
Looking Ahead: A Global Responsibility
The WHO theme for this year’s World AMR Awareness Week is “Educate, Advocate, Act Now,” calling for unified action across sectors to protect public health. Antibiotic resistance not only threatens human health but also impacts animal health, agriculture, and the environment. A “One Health” approach, which recognises the interconnectedness of these sectors, is essential to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials for future generations.
HandiCheck’s Role in the Fight Against AMR
HandiCheck’s mission is to make effective handwashing accessible and verifiable. Our innovative tool provides real-time feedback on hand hygiene practices, helping organisations maintain compliance with hygiene standards. By offering a clear view of compliance metrics, HandiCheck allows users to measure the impact of handwashing protocols and encourages a proactive approach to hygiene. This approach is particularly valuable in high-risk environments where cross-contamination is a constant concern.
For World AMR Awareness Week, HandiCheck encourages everyone to take the WHO’s three steps to support AMR awareness of Educate, Advocate, Act Now.
Educate
Share information on AMR and the importance of hand hygiene with colleagues, friends, and family. Increased awareness is a first line of defence in slowing the spread of drug-resistant infections.
Advocate
Encourage hygiene practices within your community and workplace. Simple measures like providing accessible handwashing stations and using HandiCheck to track compliance can lead to healthier environments.
Act Now
Make hand hygiene a consistent priority. Whether it’s a routine wash or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, consistent hygiene habits prevent infections and reduce the need for antibiotics.
As we observe AMR Awareness Week, let’s remember that hand hygiene is a vital piece of the solution. Together, we can help mitigate the spread of AMR and safeguard health for the future. HandiCheck is committed to supporting organisations and individuals in adopting the best hygiene practices to play an active role in combating antimicrobial resistance.
Join us in the fight against AMR. Follow the conversation on social media with #WAAW2024 and #EducateAdvocateActNow, and speak to us to discuss how we can support your hand hygiene needs.
If you’d like to find out more about us please don’t hesitate to contact Kathryn, co-founder of HandiCheck, on 07396 909894 or email kathryn@hannlie.com.