Infection Prevention Campaign
About the campaign
Why it’s important
Babies have immature immune systems. Even infections that are considered ‘mild’ in older children and adults can be life-threatening for babies.
One of the reasons that babies are more vulnerable to infections is that they have simply not been exposed to some common viruses. As they grow and get bigger, their immune systems will have had chance to develop and will be more able to cope when they are exposed to bacteria, viruses and other germs.
What we’re doing
This Infection Prevention Week 2024, alongside our Campaign Ambassadors, Annabel Karmel MBE, Marie-Louise – The Modern Midwife and Dr Adam Kay, we’re building on the success of last year’s newborn infection prevention week campaign by showing how we can all work together to keep babies safe from infection and introducing you to our newly-updated Baby Check app!
We want to empower parents and carers to trust their instincts! If you feel something is not quite right with your baby, seek advice from your midwife, health visitor, GP, NHS 111 or visit an emergency department.
The guidance
We're encouraging everyone to follow THANKS - Think Hands And No KisseS
Wash hands
Always wash your hands before touching or holding a baby
No kisses
Friends and family from outside the home should not kiss a new baby when they visit
Don't visit if ill
It's important not to visit a new baby if you are ill or have been ill recently
We have created a page for parents, carers and professionals that covers this vital information in more detail, with lots of FREE resources to download.
Infection Prevention Animation
A simple explanation for families to share, showing how everyone can help keep babies safe from infections.
