Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Consultant, COVID 19

Project Overview and Role: The emergence of the COVID-19 global pandemic has posed new challenges to already strained health systems worldwide. Governments have had to start prevention, containment and mitigation measures without a complete understanding of viral transmission, epidemiology or effective supportive treatments for COVID-19. The USAID HP+ Activity in El Salvador is supporting developing countries strengthen their health system to respond to COVID-19 emergency. The IPC consultant will be based in El Salvadorand will work with MoH and partners to improve IPC measures related to COVID-19. Primary Duties and Responsibilities: In collaboration with Ministry of Health (MoH), local partners and HP+ Activity, the consultant will undertake the following activities to strengthen case management in target countries in relation to COVID-19 Pandemic: Provide specialized advice and expertise in reviewing existing MoH infection prevention guidelines and incorporate COVID-19 related measures considering the internationally recommended standards. Technically support development of job aides, training materials, information sheets on COVID-19 related infection prevention and control. Provide advice, education and support to frontline health workers in select health facilities caring for COVID 19 patients. Provide advice to health facilities designated for COVID-19 patients on IPC requirements and if possible, to other health facilities operating in hot spots. Support development of basic IPC measures for home care for cases of COVID-19 quarantined at home. Provide advice on the procurement of IPC equipment and supplies. Provide training to frontline health workers at health facility as well as community level on infection prevention and control. Review IPC data on regular bases in collaboration with local partners (Hospitals, health facilities, community level teams etc) and ensure compliance with standards using improvement methods. Support health facilities in developing infection prevention and control annual plan. Support development of tools on IPC for patients, families and communities and conduct training and orientation on how to implement and use these tools. Develop basic tools for monitoring COVID-19 related IPC indicators and data collection tools. Activate IPC committees in communities and health facilities with training, tools, measurement packages, job aides. Coaching IPC coordinators on leadership role in driving reliable practices.