Verifying vaccination rates presents a clear picture on the overall health safety of healthcare institutions. According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released on April 2nd, the influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccination rates among healthcare workers for the 2024-25 respiratory virus season were 76.3% and 40.2%, respectively. The figures…
In the realm of infection prevention, healthcare professionals are witnessing another notable increase in measles outbreaks. The Department of Health and Human Services in Utah reported a surge of 607 cases on April 24. This alarming rise further strengthens the urgency for competent infection prevention practices across the nation's healthcare facilities.
Assessing the national perspective, datasets…
Measles, a disease declared eradicated in the United States in 2000, is steadily re-emerging as a threat to public health. A scenario that previously existed largely as a theoretical concept for most practicing clinicians is now calling for relevant healthcare system leadership to engage in active preparedness. The spread of measles across the nation increasingly…
Challenged by ongoing COVID-19 threats, particularly among older adults, healthcare systems need to maintain vigilance via disease surveillance and vaccination efforts, according to the latest study published by the JAMA Internal Medicine. The study cites alarming statistics demonstrating the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on the elderly population. Between 2023 and 2024, for example, while older…
The influenza season which started early this year in Illinois, including Evanston, appears to have plateaued, according to recent data. However, healthcare professionals caution that the influenza virus still remains a significant risk, especially for elderly individuals and those with compromised immune statuses. Infection prevention experts recommend continued vigilance given the potential for infection spread.
While…
Influenza activity is on the rise across a vast majority of the United States, leading to an increased number of outpatient visits and hospitalizations, some of which have not been observed for several decades. These alarming trends have incited pressing calls for vaccination and swift antiviral treatment from public health officials. Recent federal and state…
North Carolina's Latino communities have faced a major surge in flu activity in the late months of 2025 and early 2026, particularly from the A(H3N2) influenza strain, or 'Subclade-K.' This strain is known for producing severe symptoms and has been the main driver of the heightened flu activity in the state. Both the North Carolina…
The week ending December 27th recorded over 33,000 hospitalizations due to the influenza virus, according to the recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published on January 5th. This current surge, characterized by its steady trajectory, is not expected to level off any soon, as per Dr. Daniel Kuritzkes, an Infectious…
Jacie Volkman, Executive Director of Infection Prevention at Prisma Health, emphasizes the centrality of preventive measures to maintain the safety of their healthcare facilities. This proactive approach is essential to furnishing a secure environment for patients to continue receiving superior healthcare. Prisma Health could potentially consider exceptions, particularly in life's final hours. The organization typically…
As we welcome the year 2026, the Editorial Advisory Board of Infection Control Today® engages in introspection, marking a year fraught with misinformation, indecisive policies, and constant changes. This reflection reaffirms their unwavering commitment to uphold scientific truth, supporting the tireless professionals in Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) who remain steadfast toward patient care and…