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 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 Sanaa Power 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.
Considering Avian Flu: World Health Organization Expert Warns Against Raw Milk
January 6th 2025Drinking raw milk poses risks of disease transmission, especially with H5N1 outbreaks. Expert Richard J. Webby, PhD, advises against raw cow or goat milk consumption due to its unpredictable and significant risks.
Avian Flu Risks in Veterinary Practice: Protecting Those on the Frontlines
January 6th 2025Veterinarians, technicians, and veterinarian infection preventionists face risks from H5N1 avian flu when handling farm animals or exposed wildlife. Learn key prevention strategies, PPE recommendations, and emerging challenges.
Understanding the True Threat: Richard Webby, PhD, on H5N1 Avian Flu and Its Human Impact
January 3rd 2025Richard Webby, PhD, the director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre or Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals and Birds, discusses the evolving dynamics of H5N1 avian flu, its variants, and the low risk to humans while emphasizing vigilance among health care professionals.
Partnering for Savings: Cameron Memorial Community Hospital’s Outsourced Laundry Success
January 2nd 2025Learn how Cameron Memorial Community Hospital saved $38,000 by outsourcing laundry services to a local vendor, maintaining quality, creating space, and strengthening community ties—all while enhancing patient experience.
Streamlining Waste Management: How Others Can Learn From Cameron Memorial Community Hospital
December 31st 2024Learn how Cameron Memorial Community Hospital revamped waste management protocols through collaboration, signage, and team training, achieving efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced compliance in high-risk areas like ORs and EDs.
Reducing Pharmaceutical Waste: Challenges and Innovations at Cameron Memorial Community Hospital
December 27th 2024Cameron Memorial Community Hospital streamlined pharmaceutical waste management through signage, training, and collaboration, cutting waste nearly in half and saving costs while boosting staff competencies and accountability.
Simplifying Cleaning Practices: A Team-Driven Approach to Efficiency and Safety
December 26th 2024Cameron Memorial Community Hospital streamlined cleaning practices by consolidating products, saving costs, empowering staff, and ensuring infection control. Collaborative efforts fostered efficiency, safety, and improved staff engagement.
Redefining Competency: A Comprehensive Framework for Infection Preventionists
December 19th 2024Explore APIC’s groundbreaking framework for defining and documenting infection preventionist competency. Christine Zirges, DNP, ACNS-BC, CIC, FAPIC, shares insights on advancing professional growth, improving patient safety, and navigating regulatory challenges.
Announcing the 2024 Infection Control Today Educator of the Year: Shahbaz Salehi, MD, MPH, MSHIA
December 17th 2024Shahbaz Salehi, MD, MPH, MSHIA, is the Infection Control Today 2024 Educator of the Year. He is celebrated for his leadership, mentorship, and transformative contributions to infection prevention education and patient safety.