Abstract: OBJECTIVE To construct a theoretical framework that integrates the key components and elucidates the intrinsic mechanisms aiming at the systemic challenges in moving towards sustainable and high-efficiency infection prevention and control (IPC) practices, the two core issues "human behavior" and "data value," in particularly. METHODS The theoretical modeling and interpretation were carried out through a systematic review and analysis of research agendas and practical dilemmas in the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) field, drawing on the "gear-drive" principle from mechanical transmission systems, integration with the core concepts of behavior change theory (the COM-B model and the Behavior Change Wheel), data science and implementation science. RESULTS The "Sustainable Infection Prevention and Control ‘Gear-Drive' System Theory" was proposed. In this theory, "behavioral IPC" is defined as the "driving gear" that propels the system, with its three elements-"capability, opportunity, and motivation"-functioning as transmission components. "Data-driven IPC" acts as a precision-adjusting "transmission", while different tiers of IPC practice modes (traditional, evidence-based, precision, and green IPC) constitute goal-oriented "driven gears. " The policy and resource system serves as the "chain" connecting the gears, and the external macro-environment represents the "road" on which the system operates. This paper elaborates in detail on the connotations of each component, their interrelationships, and the system's operational mechanisms, and it also illustrates the application in real-world scenarios. CONCLUSIONS The "Gear-Drive" theory offers a systematic, dynamic, and highly integrated new paradigm for understanding, diagnosing, and optimizing the sustainable IPC practices. It focuses on the foundational driving role of behavior change and the leverage-adjusting function of data value, providing theoretical guidance and practical tools for the IPC field to confront future challenges and achieve high-quality development.