BEIJING -- China is aiming to establish an effective monitoring and reporting system for hospital-acquired infections that covers healthcare facilities nationwide.

A new standard for hospital-acquired infection monitoring issued by the National Health Commission will come into force on Feb 1.

The document stipulates the management process, requirements, methods and quality control measures involved in hospital-acquired infection monitoring.

The new standard applies not only to hospitals, but also serves as reference for healthcare facilities including maternal and child health institutions, blood purification centers, specialized health institutions, emergency services and nursing homes.