Chlorination for Infections

(CLEAN Trial)

This trial explores how using chlorine in healthcare facilities can improve the health of mothers and newborns in western Kenya. The researchers aim to determine if chlorinating water and cleaning surfaces can reduce infections in maternity wards, focusing on gut bacteria that might cause serious infections in newborns and their mothers. Facilities in the trial will receive equipment and supplies for water and surface disinfection, along with guidance on preventing infections. Pregnant women planning to give birth at participating facilities and their newborns are the primary participants. This study targets public healthcare facilities with at least 25 births a month and suitable infrastructure for chlorination. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to important research that could enhance healthcare practices and outcomes for mothers and newborns.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that using chlorine to clean water and surfaces is generally safe. Studies indicate that chlorine levels up to 4 milligrams per liter (or 4 parts per million) are safe for drinking water. When used correctly, chlorine can kill harmful germs without posing a health risk to those who drink the water.

However, chlorine can be strong and irritating if not used properly. Contact with large amounts can cause skin or eye irritation. In the small amounts used for cleaning water and surfaces, it remains safe and effective.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a comprehensive approach to infection prevention through the use of chlorination in healthcare settings. Unlike traditional methods that often rely on manual disinfection processes, this trial tests an automated system that chlorinates water directly at the source. Additionally, the trial investigates the effectiveness of producing chlorine on-site versus receiving bulk deliveries, offering potential flexibility and efficiency in maintaining hygiene standards. This innovative approach could significantly enhance infection control practices by ensuring consistent and reliable disinfection, potentially reducing infection rates in maternity wards.

This trial will compare a multi-component chlorine intervention with a control group. Studies have shown that chlorine effectively disinfects both water and surfaces. It is widely used in North America to make water safe to drink and kills many types of bacteria and germs. Chlorine-based cleaners have successfully reduced harmful bacteria on surfaces, helping to prevent infections. Research also shows that chlorine solutions can kill certain bacteria in just 60 seconds, making it a powerful tool for stopping infections. Overall, chlorine's proven ability to disinfect both water and surfaces makes it a strong option for improving the health of mothers and newborns by reducing the risk of bacterial infections.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰