Get Ready for International Infection Prevention Week!

It’s almost time for International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW)! Organized by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), which represents thousands of infection preventionists (IPs), the 2025 edition of the annual event runs from October 19 to 25.

This year’s theme is described by APIC as “a rallying call that highlights the power of collective action”: Stand UPPP for Infection Prevention, with “UPPP” standing for Unite, Protect, Prevent, Prevail. “When we unite across roles and settings, protect our communities, prevent infections through everyday actions, and prevail over emerging threats, we build a stronger, healthier future,” APIC writes.

APIC is offering all sorts of activities and resources to help surgery centers and their providers mark the occasion at the event’s flagship website, InfectionPreventionAndYou.org.

IIPW was established in 1986 to raise global awareness about stopping the spread of infection and the critical importance of infection prevention practices. In an increasingly uncertain healthcare environment and amid newfound concerns about the spread of numerous diseases, including those once considered eradicated, the 40th edition of the event provides a vital reminder and recognition of the frontline IP heroes who work tirelessly to keep their patients, their providers and their communities as safe from infectious disease as possible.

“Now, more than ever, we need you to stand up for infection prevention!” writes APIC, adding that IIPW is “a moment to honor [IPs’] expertise, amplify their voice and remind the world that infection prevention saves lives.” OSM