Prof. Uwose Uba, a Professor of Public Health at the University of Queensland, Australia, has called for intensified control strategies to combat the growing threat of nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections in healthcare facilities.
Uba made the call on Tuesday in Lagos while delivering a lecture titled “Battling Infections Within: Public Health Strategies Against Nosocomial Threats” at a public lecture organised by the Faculty of Basic, Medical and Applied Sciences, Trinity University, Sabo-Yaba.
He explained that nosocomial infections could arise from medical procedures or environmental factors such as unhygienic hospital conditions, contaminated equipment, or food consumed within hospital environments.
According to him, even when infections originate from external food sources, they are still considered hospital-acquired if they occur while the patient is admitted and under hospital care.
The public health expert urged governments and healthcare institutions to prioritise hygiene protocols, regular staff training, and strict infection prevention measures to strengthen hospital safety and restore public confidence in healthcare delivery.
“Continuous surveillance and investment in infection control technologies are vital,” Uba said. “Proactive strategies remain essential to safeguard patients and build a resilient, responsive, and healthier healthcare system.”
He also advised the general public to adhere to infection-control policies, maintain proper hygiene, wash hands regularly, and act responsibly to prevent infection spread within hospitals and communities.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Prof. Clement Kolawole, highlighted the global impact of hospital-acquired infections and called on government and stakeholders to strengthen healthcare systems through increased investment in infrastructure, training, and preventive measures.
Kolawole described nosocomial infections as a “silent but deadly threat,” stressing that tackling them requires collective commitment, stronger systems, and sustained investment to safeguard patient safety.
“At Trinity University, we combine academic excellence with innovation and entrepreneurship, ensuring that our graduates become problem-solvers, job creators, and contributors to national development,” he said.
He commended Prof. Uba for his expertise and contribution to infection control, adding that the university would continue to promote knowledge exchange and innovative solutions through public lectures.
In his remarks, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Abayomi Adetuyi, described the lecture as timely and strategic in addressing the persistent global challenge of hospital-acquired infections.
“Today’s gathering deepens our understanding of nosocomial infections that continue to undermine healthcare systems globally, reminding us of the urgent need for preventive strategies,” Adetuyi said.
He commended Uba for his dedication to promoting global health and strengthening preventive systems through infection control practices.
Also speaking, the Registrar of Trinity University, Mr. David Oyejide, said the lecture underscored the urgent need for innovation, collaboration, and determination in addressing public health challenges.
“I believe this lecture has renewed our collective commitment to tackling public health issues and strengthening our healthcare delivery systems,” Oyejide added.
