This issue covers some of the most significant news from July. Topics include acute-care recommendations, dirty devices, TB, mold and the flu vaccine.

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Implementing Strategies To Prevent Infections in Acute-Care Settings — Five medical organizations led by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America issued updated recommendations for infection prevention in acute-care settings.
 
Doctor Gets 25 Years in Federal Prison for Fraud, Using Dirty Surgical Devices — It remains critical that facilities follow manufacturers' instructions for use (IFUs) and/or nationally recognized guidelines and standards, including adhering to the forbiddance of reusing single-use items, regardless of the type and cost. ICCS frequently reminds clients of the necessity to understand the instructions and the symbols for single use, including the number 2 (two) circled with a strikethrough.
 
CMS Still Dropping the Ball on Infection Prevention in Nursing Homes: GAO — The Government Accountability Office (GAO) called out CMS for its inactivity concerning the development of new infection prevention and control standards for nursing homes.
 
More TB Transmitted via Bone Grafting — Contaminated bone graft materials were linked to more patients testing positive for tuberculosis.
 
Innovative Infection Prevention Program Reduces Surgical Site Infections, Results in Hospital Days Reduced and $500,000 Savings — New research revealed the potential benefits associated with an anesthesiologist-led infection prevention program, including reduced SSIs and lengths of stay.
 
Minimizing Health Risks: Controlling Mold in Health Care Settings — An Infection Control Today column took a close look at mold growth prevention.
 
Study Finds Prevention Bundle May Reduce Some Surgical-Site Infections — A quality improvement study found implementation of a surgical-site infection (SSI) prevention bundle with facility-level discretion on its components may be associated with reduction of certain SSIs.
 
For Those Taking Flu Shots, There Is Less Need for Antibiotics, Study Finds — A study showed that flu shots are linked to reduced use of antibiotics.
 
'Alarming' COVID-19 Treatment Rates in Nursing Homes Discovered — Research revealed that just 18% of COVID-19 cases in nursing homes were treated with antiviral medications, and the rate increased only slightly after oral treatments were approved
 
GAO's New COVID-19 Report Highlights Recommendations Critical to Preparing for Future Public Health Emergencies — GAO released a report sharing its most significant COVID-19 findings along with recommendations intended to help federal agencies better prepare for future public health emergencies.