This issue covers some of the most significant news from October. Topics include PPE, drug-resistant infections, MRSA, vaccine hesitancy, RSV, influenza, and malaria.
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Personal Protective Equipment: An Ongoing Challenge — In this blog post, ICCS Founder Phenelle Segal, RN, CIC, FAPIC, discussed PPE fatigue and the importance of employers keeping current with and following guidelines and best practices.
International Infection Prevention Week — Phenelle contributed a column about IIPW to the Texas Ambulatory Surgery Center Society. IIPW took place Oct. 17-23.
Drug-Resistant Infections Led to $1.9 Billion in Health Care Costs, More Than 10,000 Deaths Among Older Adults in One Year — The results of a new study reminded us of the significant burden of antibiotic-resistant infections on patients and the healthcare system
The Long Arm of MRSA — In a 6-month observational study, researchers found environmental shedding of MRSA during 45% of appointments outside hospital rooms or during outpatient clinic visits. Not good, to say the least.
Studies Provide Insights Into COVID Vaccine Hesitancy — A particularly valuable read for those involved in vaccine education and development of public health communication strategies.
2021 National Survey: Attitudes about Influenza, Pneumococcal Disease, and COVID-19 — A National Foundation for Infectious Diseases survey also provided valuable insight into perspectives on vaccines.
RSV Is Common, Dangerous Infection: What Parents Need to Know — Respiratory syncytial virus circulated widely and hit regions hard this past summer, which is unusual as it's typically seen in the late fall and winter. This year, adults have also been especially hard hit by this highly contagious infection. Learn about RSV and its precautions.
The Differences and Similarities Between the Flu and COVID-19 — Flu season is here. This piece from American Heart Association News does a good job comparing the flu to COVID.
WHO Recommends Groundbreaking Malaria Vaccine for Children at Risk — Some great global news from early in the month.
3D-Printed Vaccine Patch Offers Vaccination Without a Shot — Now this is pretty neat!
ICYMI: 10 of the Scariest Healthcare Infections and Threats (2021 Edition) — ICCS published its third annual special report to coincide with Halloween.