NATIONAL POLICY ON INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL IPC

What Is This Policy?

A national policy framework establishing standards and guidelines for infection prevention and control across Nigeria's healthcare facilities, aimed at reducing healthcare-associated infections and improving patient safety.

Who Does It Target?

Healthcare workers, hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, patients, and the general public.

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Reduce healthcare-associated infections, improve patient safety, strengthen healthcare facility hygiene standards, and build national capacity for outbreak preparedness and response.

Key Features

IPC Standards: National standards for infection prevention in healthcare settings Healthcare Worker Safety: Protects healthcare workers from occupational infections Outbreak Preparedness: Strengthens capacity for epidemic and pandemic response Facility Guidelines: Standards for hygiene, sterilization, and waste management in health facilities

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active; implemented across healthcare facilities Coverage: Nationwide; all healthcare facilities Enforcement: Federal and State Ministries of Health Partners: WHO, NCDC, and other health partners

How to Access

IPC guidelines are implemented through healthcare facilities. Healthcare workers receive training through their institutions and the Federal Ministry of Health.

Impact & Metrics

Improves patient outcomes and healthcare worker safety across Nigeria's health system.

Official Resources

Website: health.gov.ng Contact: Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja; Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)

Legal Framework

Operates under the National Health Act 2014, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control Act 1993, and the National Health Laboratory Policy. Draws on WHO Core Components of Infection Prevention and Control Programmes, the IPC guidelines of the Africa Centres for Disease Control (Africa CDC), and Joint Commission International accreditation standards.