Infection Control
RSSArticles
-
Occupational Monkeypox in Healthcare Workers
Although the overall risk of transmission is low, at least two healthcare workers have been occupationally infected with monkeypox virus (MPXV) in the United States. In an unusual case, two caregivers were infected by environmental fomites in the home of a patient in Brazil. Although rare, healthcare workers have been infected in previous outbreaks, and there likely are a fair number of unreported cases, given the stigma associated with MPXV.
-
Better Diagnostics Equals Fewer Unnecessary Antibiotic Prescriptions
Researchers credit diagnostic stewardship as the top reason for an impressive reduction in needless antibiotic prescriptions.
-
Antibiotic Resistance: We Were Doing Great and then COVID Happened
After improvement, antimicrobial resistance in the United States significantly increased.
-
The Dental Procedure-Infective Endocarditis Link Controversy Continues
Infective endocarditis was more common with dental surgery or tooth extractions in the preceding four weeks in high-risk patients. Researchers abrogated this risk with antibiotic prophylaxis before the procedure.
-
Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccine (Booster Dose)
The FDA has amended the emergency use authorizations of two leading COVID-19 vaccines. Now, these new bivalent formulations can be used as a single booster dose (after primary or booster vaccination).
-
Frontline Providers Must Consider Dual Threats of AFM Resurgence, Polio Return
The CDC is advising frontline providers of a potential surge in cases of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a rare, polio-like complication of certain enteroviruses. Concurrently, there are concerns about the re-emergence of poliomyelitis.
-
Remaining Questions in Syphilis Treatment
Eight leading experts on sexually transmitted diseases convened to discuss key questions in the management of syphilis in adults with and without HIV infection based on a systematic review of the literature. More than 3,000 articles were screened, and the discussion focused on 95 relevant publications and three main topics.
-
COVID-19 and Headache
Headache is a common feature of acute COVID-19 infection, as well as a long-standing feature of “long COVID” after recovery from the acute infection. Treatment is symptomatic, based on the characteristics of the headache syndrome.
-
With HCV Cases Climbing, Needlesticks Pose Risk
The national opioid epidemic has driven a steady increase in hepatitis C virus, putting healthcare workers at risk of acquiring the bloodborne pathogen if they incur a needlestick. Although most infections in opioid users — primarily via sharing needles — are completely treatable, 14,000 people a year die of hepatitis C, according to the CDC.
-
Leading Nursing Group Experiences ‘Racial Reckoning’
In an act of unvarnished accountability, the American Nurses Association has examined its past actions on race and found them wanting.