Health Care-Acquired Infections in Low- and Middle-Income Countries and the Role of Infection Prevention and Control

Abstract

Health care-associated infections (HAIs) account for many morbidity and mortality worldwide, with disproportionate adverse effects in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Many factors contribute to the impact in LMIC, including lack of infrastructure, inconsistent surveillance, deficiency in trained personnel and infection control programs, and poverty-related factors. Therefore, optimal approaches must be tailored for LMIC and balance effectiveness and cost in the control of HAIs.

Keywords: Antibiotic resistance; Hospital infections; Infection control; LMIC.