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The Specialized Medical City at King Khalid University, represented by its Infection Prevention and Control Department, organized the First Scientific Forum on Infection Prevention and Control yesterday in collaboration with the Public Health Authority (Weqaya). The forum was attended by the Executive Director General of the Specialized Medical City, Prof. Fouad Abbaq, and the Director of the Public Health Authority's Asir Office, Dr. Ali Al-Qarni, with more than 500 participants and beneficiaries.
The forum was organized in alignment with the 2026 national infection prevention and control slogan, "Infection Prevention and Control: Protecting Lives Through Awareness and Commitment." The slogan highlights the importance of prevention as a fundamental pillar in protecting communities and healthcare facilities. It also emphasizes that safeguarding lives begins with raising awareness and is reinforced through adherence to sound healthcare practices and the implementation of approved preventive standards.
Dr. Zainab Al-Nujaimi, Head of the Infection Prevention and Control Department at the Specialized Medical City and Chair of the Forum, stated that the event addressed the most significant challenges facing infection prevention and control departments in healthcare facilities. Discussions covered several key themes and issues related to preventing infections and limiting their spread, with the aim of enhancing patient and healthcare worker safety, improving the quality of healthcare environments, and reducing risks and sources of infection within medical facilities.
Al-Nujaimi explained that the forum featured five specialized, interactive workshops addressing various aspects of infection prevention and control. The workshops focused on developing the skills of healthcare and administrative personnel, strengthening preventive practices, and implementing standards and procedures that help reduce healthcare-associated infections.
The accompanying workshops complemented the forum's scientific program by providing participants with opportunities for interaction, hands-on application, and knowledge exchange. These activities strengthened the integration of scientific knowledge and professional practice while supporting healthcare facilities in establishing safe and sustainable environments for patients and healthcare professionals.
The forum and its accompanying workshops form part of the ongoing efforts of King Khalid University's Specialized Medical City to support continuous professional development, promote a culture of prevention and safety, and improve the effectiveness of healthcare practices. These efforts align with national healthcare priorities and contribute to enhancing the quality of healthcare services and the safety of beneficiaries.
