The needs of developing countries and the resources required.

Nosocomial infections in developing countries represent a major public health problem that is not universally recognized. In Latin America rates for nosocomial infections range from 10 to 26% with a severe impact on morbidity and mortality and a consequent economic burden. The fundamental needs are: (1) to recognize the importance of this problem; (2) to modify the attitude of government authorities in the sense that hospital care could be improved; (3) to teach medical personnel the importance of infection control at the beginning of their training; and (4) to increase the awareness of the population of its right to better health care. From an international point of view we should establish the following guidelines: (1) the World Health Organisation should establish a worldwide programme on nosocomial infections; (2) medical and nursing schools should include regular courses on infection control; (3) international organizations should support training and research programmes in developing countries, focusing on the regional needs for infection control.