In a pivotal step towards improving hygiene practices and reducing preventable infections among mothers and children, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has partnered with Dettol to launch the ‘In Safe Hands’ training programme. This initiative will empower healthcare workers, such as nurses and midwives, to educate pregnant women and new mothers on proper hygiene practices, ultimately contributing to the reduction of maternal and infant mortality rates.
According to the Saving Mothers Report 2020 – 2022, for every 100,000 live births, 126 mothers lose their lives, and the National Department of Health Strategic Plan 2020 – 2025 reports a staggering 32 deaths per 1,000 live births for children under five years. Many of these deaths are due to infections that could have been prevented with proper hygiene practices.
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, emphasized the critical role of hygiene in safeguarding the health of mothers and newborns:“We know that clean hands can save lives, particularly those of vulnerable mothers and newborns. This programme is an investment in the future of maternal and child health. By equipping our healthcare workers with these skills, we can make a significant impact in preventing infections and improving health outcomes,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The ‘In Safe Hands’ training was officially unveiled at a gathering of healthcare professionals in Melrose Arch. It is currently being piloted at 16 health facilities across Gauteng, including hospitals and clinics, with the goal of expanding to other provinces in the future. The programme aims to address maternal and infant mortality caused by preventable infections.
Dettol’s Global Marketing Director, Issaih Haruna, highlighted the brand’s ongoing commitment to improving hygiene-related health outcomes: “With initiatives such as this, Dettol is working to reduce hygiene-related infections in children by educating mothers and communities about the importance of good hygiene and encouraging long-lasting behaviour change,” said Haruna. “Through the ‘In Safe Hands’ programme, we aim to tackle preventable infections and promote healthier futures for both mothers and their babies.”
This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), as well as South Africa’s National Development Plan 2030, which seeks to reduce maternal and child mortality rates.
Developed Through Collaboration and Local Insights
The ‘In Safe Hands’ guidance was developed in collaboration with nurses, midwives, health promoters, government officials, and academic professionals within South Africa. Rooted in local insights, the programme was shaped based on extensive research, including interviews with healthcare workers and feedback from focus groups with South African mothers. The guidance materials have been positively received, ensuring that they address the specific hygiene needs of local communities.
Tackling Preventable Infections
In South Africa, many mothers face life-threatening infections during and after childbirth. Many of these infections could be prevented with improved hygiene practices. The ‘In Safe Hands’ programme focuses on educating mothers about the five key hygiene behaviours that can help reduce infection risks for both mother and baby. “Many mothers have improved handwashing practices post-pandemic, but proper hygiene at home remains a challenge,” explained Haruna. “This programme is designed to teach mothers why good hygiene is essential and how they can protect themselves and their babies from preventable infections.”
Educational Materials and Resources
The Dettol ‘In Safe Hands’ programme provides essential resources to support healthcare workers and mothers alike. The materials include:
- Informational Leaflets for healthcare workers, outlining five key hygiene behaviours that reduce infection risks.
- Visually Led Materials for mothers, serving as easy-to-understand reminders of the hygiene practices they should adopt.
- Distribution Plan: 350 nursing leaflets, 30,000 mothers’ reference leaflets, and 100 posters will be distributed across clinics at no charge.
These materials will support long-term behaviour change, fostering improved hygiene practices and ultimately enhancing maternal and infant health outcomes.