What is the purpose of infection control surveillance?

The purpose of infection control surveillance is primarily to monitor and prevent infections within healthcare settings and communities. This involves systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of health data related to infection rates, which aids in identifying patterns and outbreaks. By monitoring these data, healthcare facilities can implement guidelines and interventions effectively to reduce the incidence of infections, ensuring both patient safety and public health.

Effective infection control surveillance helps to recognize potential risks and effectiveness of control measures, allowing for timely responses to emerging threats or increases in infection rates. This proactive approach is crucial in preventing the spread of infections, particularly in vulnerable populations within hospitals and long-term care facilities.