'Keep 'em Clean'

That's the name of a new month-long DHSS campaign which is part of its ongoing efforts to keep infection rates down in the Isle of Man.

It highlights the importance of correct hand washing as an effective way of preventing the spread of germs and diseases.

The campaign gets under way at 10am today and runs for a month.

Edward Oldham reports (text, below, from attached audio file):

'Keep 'em Clean' is especially focusing on getting patients and staff at Noble's Hospital to work together.

For example, many members of staff have signed up to the 'Hand washing champion' scheme, which includes posters of them being put up around the hospital showing them as role models for correct hand washing technique.

They will also be wearing badges on their uniforms letting patients know it's ok to ask them if they have washed their hands.

Among the many things planned for the month - on Saturday there will be an open day at Noble's which will include mock-up scenarios showing how bugs can be transferred.