Hydrachem Emphasizes the Need for Infection Control Preparedness Before Ebola Crisis

The Urgent Call for Infection-Control Preparedness by Hydrachem

As the ongoing Ebola outbreak raises alarms in Central Africa, the UK manufacturer Hydrachem has made a clarion call for proactive infection control strategies. With over 50 years of experience in water purification and sanitation, Hydrachem is currently engaged in supplying essential emergency water purification products to organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and UNICEF.

The Imperative of Proactive Planning

Hydrachem highlights that being prepared for infection control is not merely a reactive process; it demands foresight and structured planning long before an emergency strikes. In the wake of the Ebola crisis, the company’s Chief Commercial Officer, Nicholas Barbieri, stresses the importance of addressing practical considerations, such as storage, transportation, and consistent application of sanitizing products in regions where infrastructure and supply chains may be compromised.

At the heart of their offerings are Oasis water purification tablets and granules, which, when mixed with water, create a hypochlorous acid solution. This solution boasts superior disinfection capabilities compared to traditional liquid bleach, making it crucial for swift and effective water treatment and surface disinfection in high-stakes environments.

The Practical Challenges

Barbieri points out that the discourse around infection control often touches on broad strategies, yet the true effectiveness is contingent on practical applications. Questions such as whether supplies can be delivered promptly and stored safely, and if teams can utilize them efficiently during crises, can significantly impact response efficacy.

While liquid bleach will always be significant in managing infectious diseases, the company advocates that long-lasting products, such as tablets, should also feature prominently in emergency preparedness discourse. Their compact sizing, stability, and longer shelf life provide substantial advantages for stockpiling, ease of transportation, and rapid deployment in humanitarian settings.

A Broader Discussion

Reflecting on the current Ebola response, Hydrachem calls for a comprehensive dialogue on adequately preparing for infection control well in advance. Barbieri emphasizes that decisions made before a crisis can drastically improve outcomes during an outbreak. He advocates building reserves of durable infection-control formats like chlorine tablets and granules, which could empower health ministries, NGOs, and humanitarian organizations to respond more swiftly and effectively when outbreaks occur.

It is essential to recognize that implementing effective infection prevention is multifaceted. Hydrachem’s NaDCC tablets and chlorine-based products should be part of a wider response strategy that encompasses personal protective equipment (PPE), isolation protocols, access to clean water, hygiene measures, community engagement, and clinical care.

Hydrachem's Mission

Founded in 1973, Hydrachem has established itself as a global leader in producing effervescent chlorine (NaDCC) tablets. The company partners with NGOs, governments, and premier healthcare institutions like the NHS to tackle waterborne diseases and ensure clean and safe drinking water for millions.

Operating in over 60 countries, Hydrachem maintains a commitment to improving water safety and hygiene through innovative products that respond to public health needs while addressing humanitarian crises. By advocating for preparedness in the realm of infection control and providing reliable products, Hydrachem aims to create a safer and healthier world for all.

For further information about Hydrachem and their range of products, please visit Hydrachem's official website and their social media on Facebook and LinkedIn.