Tori Whitacre Martonicz, MA, is the lead editor of Infection Control Today. She has been a writer and editor for over 30 years and has an MA and BA in English Composition/Literature from the University of Akron in Akron, OH. She lives in Ohio with her husband, Eric; son, Drake; 2 tiny dogs, Selena Brigid Sophia and Doctor Danger Dog; and a big black cat, Freya. She loves reading, writing, gardening, and spending time with her loved ones.
Contact her through her email: tmartonicz@mjhlifesciences.com.
From Shortages to Security: How Reusable Health Care Textiles Can Transform Infection Prevention
March 7th 2025Reusable health care textiles enhance infection prevention, reduce waste, and strengthen supply chains. Hygienically clean textiles offer a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to disposable PPE, ensuring patient safety and environmental responsibility.
Surging Whooping Cough Cases Highlight the Importance of Vaccination
March 6th 2025Experts like Michael Glazier, MD, warn that waning immunity, declining vaccination rates, and increased transmission are driving this resurgence. Vaccination remains the best defense, with pediatricians urging timely immunization to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further outbreaks.
The Future of Reusable PPE in Health Care: A Sustainable and Cost-Effective Solution
March 5th 2025Reusable PPE offers a cost-effective, sustainable solution for health care, reducing waste and improving supply chain resilience. Overcoming adoption barriers requires education, policy support, and industry-wide collaboration.
Herpes and Dentistry: A Silent But Serious Concern
February 21st 2025Herpes infections pose significant risks in dentistry. JoAnn Gurenlian, RDH, PhD, presented prevention, treatment, occupational hazards, and a potential breakthrough in gene therapy that could revolutionize herpes management at the Midwinter Meeting.
From Sterilization Tech to Infection Control Advocate: Sherrie Busby’s Inspiring Dental Journey
February 20th 2025Sherrie Busby, EDDA, CDSO, CDIPC, shares her journey from dental assisting to infection control advocacy, highlighting her passion for education, her role at Heartland Dental, and her exciting transition to a new chapter.
Innovation and Infection Control: Highlights From W&H at Chicago Dental Midwinter Society Meeting
February 19th 2025Doris Schneider, senior marketing manager for North America for W&H North America, shares insights into the 160th Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting, showcasing the Lexa Mini rapid sterilizer and Synea Power Edition handpiece, designed for efficient sterilization and effortless dental procedures.
Why AL-CIP Certification Is a Game-Changer; Apply by February 28, 2025
February 17th 2025AL-CIP certification validates leadership in infection prevention, unlocking career growth and credibility. Hear from certified professionals on its impact and why you should apply today before applications close on February 28, 2025!
Undermining Public Health: Nearly 1300 Cut From CDC With More to Come
February 14th 2025The Trump administration’s decision to terminate nearly 1,300 CDC employees weakens America’s public health defenses, jeopardizes critical research, and endangers the nation’s preparedness for future health crises.
Second Strain of Bird Flu Found in US Dairy Cows: What It Means for Infection Prevention and Control
February 7th 2025A new H5N1 strain was found in Nevada dairy cows, challenging earlier transmission theories. This raises concerns about animal vulnerability, human health risks, and food safety. Experts emphasize the need for improved surveillance, biosecurity, and cross-sector collaboration to contain the virus spread.
Fungal Infections: The Silent Epidemic Threatening Global Health
February 6th 2025Fungal infections are a rising global threat, with antifungal resistance complicating treatment. Neil J. Clancy, MD, emphasizes the urgent need for research, better diagnostics, and stronger infection prevention strategies.
The Hidden Dangers of Hospital Ventilation: Are We Spreading Viruses Further?
January 31st 2025New research reveals hospital ventilation and air purifiers may unintentionally spread viral particles, increasing infection risks. Infection preventionists must rethink airflow strategies to protect patients and staff.
Evaluating Automated Dispensing Systems for Disinfectants in Hospitals
January 23rd 2025Hospitals rely on automated disinfectant dispensers, but a study led by Curtis Donskey, MD, found inconsistent dilution levels, with some dispensers releasing only water. Improved monitoring and design modifications are essential.
Alcohol-Based Antiseptics Show Promise for Nasal Decolonization and SSI Prevention
January 23rd 2025A meta-analysis found alcohol-based antiseptics significantly reduce Staphylococcus aureus-related surgical site infections (SSIs), demonstrating efficacy comparable to mupirocin and iodophor, supporting their expanded use in infection prevention strategies.
Infections Do Not Recognize International Borders: The Potential Impact of US Withdrawal From WHO
January 21st 2025The US withdrawal from WHO jeopardizes infection prevention, research funding, and global collaboration, disproportionately impacting low-income nations reliant on WHO support for equitable health care advancements.
Efficiency, Engagement, and Excellence: Revolutionizing Staffing in Environmental Services
January 15th 2025Discover how innovative strategies in scheduling, staff engagement, and continuous learning transformed a hospital’s environmental services, enhancing efficiency, employee satisfaction, and patient care standards.
Ambassador Deborah L. Birx, MD, Unveils Urgent Insights on Avian Flu, COVID-19, and HMPV
January 13th 2025"I was hoping we had learned from COVID-19 that a lot of transmission happens between people who don't believe that they have an illness and others," Deborah Birx, MD, told Infection Control Today.