Scientific Sessions

Nursing plays a critical role in the prevention, management, and control of infectious diseases across healthcare settings. Nurses are often the first point of contact for patients, making them essential in early detection, isolation, and treatment initiation. Their responsibilities extend beyond direct patient care to include health education, infection prevention strategies, and surveillance activities aimed at reducing the spread of pathogens. With the growing challenges posed by emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19, influenza, tuberculosis, and antimicrobial-resistant infections, nurses must stay updated with evidence-based practices, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and strict adherence to infection control protocols. In hospital and community settings alike, they collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop effective care plans, manage outbreaks, and provide psychosocial support to patients and families affected by infectious diseases. Their ability to combine technical expertise with compassionate care makes them indispensable in safeguarding public health.

Infectious disease nursing also encompasses education and advocacy, empowering communities to adopt preventive measures such as vaccination, hygiene practices, and safe food and water handling. Nurses actively participate in public health campaigns, contact tracing, and immunization drives, which are vital for controlling disease transmission. Additionally, in low-resource or high-risk environments, they adapt innovative solutions to overcome challenges such as limited medical supplies or overcrowded facilities. Advances in microbiology, epidemiology, and telemedicine are further enhancing nursing’s ability to respond swiftly to outbreaks, while global health networks provide opportunities for collaboration and training. By combining their clinical skills with research awareness, nurses help in generating data that informs policy and strengthens health systems against future infectious threats. In essence, the intersection of nursing and infectious disease is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, requiring continuous professional development, resilience, and a commitment to protecting both individual patients and broader communities from preventable illness.