Evaluation of a handwashing intervention to reduce respiratory illness rates in senior day-care centers

A R Falsey; M M Criddle; J E Kolassa; R M McCann; C A Brower; W J Hall

doi:10.1086/501612

Evaluation of a handwashing intervention to reduce respiratory illness rates in senior day-care centers

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 1999 Mar;20(3):200-2. doi: 10.1086/501612.

Authors

A R Falsey¹, M M Criddle, J E Kolassa, R M McCann, C A Brower, W J Hall

Affiliation

¹ Department of Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, and University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY, USA.

PMID: 10100548
DOI: 10.1086/501612

Abstract

To decrease respiratory infections in senior day care, staff were educated on viral transmission and the value of hand washing. Fanny packs with alcohol foam supplemented hand washing and were alternated monthly between centers. Infection rates were unchanged with alcohol foam use. The intervention year's infection rate was significantly lower than the previous 3 years, suggesting a benefit of education.

Publication types

Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

Adult
Aged
Day Care, Medical*
Female
Hand Disinfection*
Humans
Infection Control / methods*
Male
New York
Respiratory Tract Infections / prevention & control*
Respiratory Tract Infections / virology
Virus Diseases / prevention & control*

Grants and funding

1P60-A-6-10463001/PHS HHS/United States