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Infection control differs among nations. Notably in USA strict measures are enforced to prevent air-borne tuberculosis (TB) transmission. In several European countries focus is on droplet transmission, close to patients. In the absence of strict evidence to resolve this divergence, an empiric, Danish guideline for infection control in hospitals is presented. If multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB is documented or suspected, according to risk-factors, patients should remain under air-borne precautions. The vast majority of Danish TB-patients (non-MDR) require less demanding, hygienic precautions.

Infection control in primary health care Infection control in primary health care is underreported and often underestimated. Cross contamination can happen by indirect contact, and general hygienic precautions should be established in all procedures where HCWs are at risk of contact with organic material. This article suggests infection control measures that can be established in primary health care regarding hand hygiene, cleaning and reprocessing of utensils.

This paper addresses the apparent discrepancy between knowledge of infection control guidelines--in particular concerning hand hygiene--and the lack of compliance by health care workers. Several factors are involved, including the personal experiences of the single person and the group of staff members--the authentic knowledge. This must be taken into consideration when preparing guidelines, which should reflect daily work situations in health care.