Protecting the public from infection and environmental threats to health

We will apply our expertise to protect the population from infection and threats from environmental factors, working in collaboration with others to mitigate these risks to human health.

It is a core function to apply our expertise and resources to protect the population from serious infection and the health effects of environmental problems such as air pollution and climate change.  This will involve early detection, good planning and application of resource in collaboration with others to provide an effective response for our population.

By 2030, we expect to have:

• eliminated Hepatitis B and C as a significant threat to public health in Wales
• experienced fewer healthcare associated infections and only use antibiotics appropriately
• new classes of treatments to replace antibiotics and fewer people will die from infections as a result of resistance to antibiotics
• the highest immunisation uptake possible across all sections of the population
• prepared for and be able to deal with the expected effects of climate change
• significantly reduced deaths and illnesses from poor air quality
• strengthened international collaboration on bio-security thereby reducing further the threats from infectious diseases

This means:

• working with our partners to reduce the burden of infection through:
  • - high levels of vaccinations and immunisations
  • - rapid and effective management and control of infection in all settings
  • - reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing
• working with our partners to reduce the burden of poor health arising from environmental hazards and the expected effects of climate change

By 2030, we will:

• have contributed significantly to reductions in morbidity and mortality linked to infections
• be collating and utilising health data sourced across the health and care system to direct prevention activities and identify earlier opportunities for intervention (timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment)
• have established strengthened capacity in Wales for early warning, risk reduction and management of national and global health risks
• be recognised as system leaders for healthcare associated infections and antimicrobial resistance
• have worked with partners to reduce mortality and morbidity attributed to factors such as the impact of climate change and air pollution