Costa Rica yesterday launched a pilot plan that promotes hand-washing in hospitals to prevent infections.

The Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) chose the National Children's Hospital to carry out this pilot plan, which it hopes to implement in other Latin American countries and around the world if it's successful.

It focuses on training health-care workers who are in close contact with patients to wash their hands frequently and use an alcohol-based sterilizing solution to prevent spreading infections, according to a statement from Casa Presidencial.

The plan was launched yesterday during an activity at the National Children's Hospital attended by PAHO representatives, national medical authorities and Vice-President Laura Chinchilla.

“We should be filled with pride that PAHO is carrying out this pilot plan in our country, but at the same time we must be clear that it's a big commitment,” Chinchilla said.