Angela Willemsen is a veterinarian based in Brisbane, Australia, with a strong focus on infection prevention and control (IPC) in veterinary practice. She originally worked as a (human) registered nurse, which shaped her understanding of infection control principles and where her interest in public health began. This experience influenced her transition into veterinary medicine, where she developed a keen interest in IPC and zoonotic diseases. Angela has also acted as an IPC mentor to veterinary practices and is also involved in Public Health as a Research Officer in The University of Queensland where her focus is One Health.
Angela completed a PhD at the University of Queensland, investigating IPC practices in small animal clinics and included research on hand hygiene compliance and the implementation of training and education to improve practices. She actively promotes IPC to mitigate risks such as zoonotic diseases, healthcare-associated infections, and antimicrobial resistance. Angela founded “The Clean Vet,” offering IPC education, audits, and training to veterinary professionals.
Angela also developed and now facilitates the “Veterinary Foundations of Infection Prevention and Control” course through the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC). This innovative program, which includes modules on outbreak management, antimicrobial stewardship, and environmental hygiene, is designed for global veterinary professionals, reflecting her commitment to advancing IPC in the veterinary field.