COVID-19

Four years ago today, March 15, 2020, the COVID-19 lockdown began, and since then, the world has undergone significant changes. It has been a terrifying experience for everyone, especially for the infection prevention community, both within and outside of the health care sector. However, a crucial question remains unanswered: What has the infection prevention community learned from this pandemic, and where does it go from here?

The CDC's recent decision to align recommendations for respiratory viruses, particularly COVID-19, has garnered support from the public and infectious disease societies. However, as the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) lends its backing to the CDC's harmonization efforts, concerns persist regarding the implications of this shift, especially considering the Omicron variant's unique characteristics and the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19's multi-system impacts.

Step into the diverse and poignant world of "Corona City: Voices From an Epicenter" with editor Lorraine Ash, MA. In this insightful Q&A, learn about the origins of this remarkable anthology, the challenges faced in capturing raw, unfiltered narratives of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lasting impact of these stories on readers and communities alike.

A recent commentary by Dr. Amesh Adalja in MedPage Today challenges the perception of COVID-19 as solely a respiratory virus, highlighting its broader impact on the body. This analysis questions the notion that COVID-19 should be managed like common respiratory infections, urging a closer look at vaccine effectiveness, the rise of long COVID, and the need for enhanced measures to curb the virus's spread. Let's explore the complexities of COVID-19 management and the pressing realities faced by the US and the world.

Despite the severity of a measles diagnosis, outbreaks continue. Health care workers should encourage their patients to receive the vaccine and explain its safety.

The journey of pregnancy begins long before conception, with a woman's lifestyle choices profoundly influencing her future child's health. From diet to infection prevention, proactive measures are crucial.

Take 5 minutes to catch up on Infection Control Today®’s highlights for the week ending February 17, 2024.

VR training is a game-changer in PPE skills for health care amidst COVID-19. Study shows superiority over traditional methods, revolutionizing safety education, according to a study published today.

Learn about FendX Technologies' breakthrough nanotechnology, including REPELWRAP film and a spray formulation, designed to prevent the spread of infectious diseases on various surfaces.

Take 5 minutes to catch up on Infection Control Today®’s highlights for the week ending February 4, 2024.

CSL achieves a global milestone as Japan approves ARCT-154, the first sa-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, showcasing CSL's commitment to innovation, efficacy, and prolonged protection against variants. Jonathan Edelman, MD, senior VP of CSL Vaccine’s Innovation Unit, speaks with ICT.

FDA guides the transition from emergency-use-labeled Paxlovid to approved labeling, impacting dispensing sites, providers, and patients.

CDC sends pathogen spread proposals for revision, raising concerns about potential harm and emphasizing the need for reevaluation.

Due to the increasing frequency of natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and forest fires, people living in temporary shelters have a higher risk of infection. To address the situation, APIC has created a guide for infection preventionists.

Take 5 minutes to catch up on Infection Control Today®’s highlights for the week ending January 21, 2024.

In the dynamic realm of infection prevention, professionals face both the potential for impactful contributions and the risk of burnout. The delicate balance between the highs and lows prompts an exploration into factors influencing the well-being of infection preventionists.

Joseph A. Ladapo, MD, PhD-ASTHO, calls for the halt of these vaccines; however, the FDA disagrees and says that “misinformation and disinformation about these vaccines…results in vaccine hesitancy.”

Survey shows people think the influenza vaccine is safer than the COVID-19 vaccine. This is concerning as COVID-19 is more prevalent and hospitalizes more people. This could result in low vaccine uptake.

Results of a study by Yan Xie and colleagues highlight the severe impact of COVID-19, with higher death rates, increased risks of long-term complications, and greater infectivity compared to seasonal influenza.

Explore the top 14 articles from Infection Control Today for 2023, covering cutting-edge developments, strategies, and innovations in infection prevention and control.

While public transportation offers convenience and accessibility, it is crucial to remain mindful of the potential presence of germs, emphasizing the importance of adopting infection prevention measures during travel times.

New insights into pathogen-specific transmission dynamics and innovations in ventilation, filtration, and monitoring systems offer promising tools for effective infection control.

A recent study in the American Journal of Infection Control reveals errors in infection prevention adherence among health care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of improved training.

Take 5 minutes to catch up on Infection Control Today®’s highlights for the week ending December 10, 2023.

Which of the various low and high-tech measures proposed to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission, from hand hygiene to air cleaners, actually work? A new study gives practical tools for assessment and insights into their effectiveness.

Jo Varshney, DVM, PhD, the founder of VeriSIM Life, shares her journey to her current position and the role of courage in it.

Staying Ahead with Company Updates and Product Innovations. This article's news is from BiomX, SHEA, and CSL and Arcturus Therapeutics.

A critical analysis questions the universal application of contact precautions (CP) for MRSA prevention, considering potential harms, environmental sustainability, and evidence-based alternatives.

Infection Control Today® is honored to announce it is reviving the Infection Control Today’s Educator of the Year Award™. For more information, please listen to Linda Spaulding, RN, CIC, the 2023 Winner of the Infection Control Today’s Educator of the Year Award.

Prepare for a healthcare "tripledemic" with Influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. Operating rooms face risks, but autonomous UV disinfection systems offer an effective solution to maintain sterility.