According to the World Health Organization, infections remain one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality worldwide, particularly among premature infants. At the same time, a significant proportion of these infections are not linked to external factors, but to the conditions under which medical care is provided — factors that can be improved through protocols, approaches, and daily practices.

This was the focus of the ZDOROVI workshop, titled “Infection Control Architecture and Modern Hygiene Protocols,” held on April 30, 2026, as part of the First Breath perinatal support program. The event brought together over 200 medical professionals to address a practical question: how to minimize risks to newborns through effective infection control in perinatal centers.

The speaker was Roman Kolesnyk — a program specialist for the Support TB Control Efforts in Ukraine project, funded by the U.S. Government and implemented by PATH. Mr. Kolesnyk is an epidemiologist with practical experience in infection control and the implementation of modern safety protocols in healthcare facilities. He encouraged participants to rethink their perspective on safety in neonatology. One of the key messages was that newborns are rarely a source of infectious risk; rather, it is the healthcare environment and staff that may pose a risk to them.

The workshop focused on practical solutions that can be implemented immediately. In particular, participants discussed why childbirth should be treated as a sterile medical procedure — from air quality control to the mandatory use of basic personal protective equipment. Even in the case of partner-assisted childbirth, safety can be ensured through clear instructions and strict adherence to protocols by all participants involved.

Particular attention was paid to practices that remain widespread despite lacking evidence of effectiveness. These include thorough cleaning of premises, disinfection by spraying, and the use of ultraviolet light or air purifiers in the presence of patients. According to the expert, such approaches can create a false sense of security and may even increase the risk of infection. Instead, systematic cleaning performed according to a schedule, along with strict adherence to basic hygiene protocols, has been proven to be effective.

The workshop also highlighted the critical vulnerability of newborns. Due to the immaturity of their immune systems, high skin permeability, and the absence of established microflora, even minor lapses in hygiene can have serious consequences. For this reason, a separate session was dedicated to everyday practices — from hand hygiene and the proper use of disinfectants to equipment maintenance and space organization.

In particular, participants discussed how even basic elements, such as handwashing sinks, can become potential sources of infection if they are improperly placed or maintained. It was also recommended to use individual equipment for each child and to conduct bacteriological testing only when there are clear clinical indications.

The workshop was part of ZDOROVI’s broader systemic efforts within the First Breath program. The program combines research on the state of perinatal care, the procurement of critical equipment, international experience exchange, as well as advocacy and educational initiatives for healthcare professionals.

The next session is coming soon. On May 7, the second part of the workshop, titled “Practical Cases: Prevention of Healthcare-Associated Infections and Monitoring of Antimicrobial Resistance,” will take place, continuing the discussion on infection control in neonatology.

The project is implemented with the support of the Askold and Dir Fund as a part of the Strong Civil Society of Ukraine – a Driver Towards Reforms and Democracy Project, implemented by ISAR Ednannia and funded by Norway and Sweden.