The US CDC has released updated guidelines for preventing intravascular catheter-related infections, aiming to eliminate these deadly and costly healthcare-associated infections. The new guide outlines five key prevention strategies based on scientific evidence, which have been proven successful in reducing infections in hospitals.
A collaborative €12 million project, AvecNet, aims to secure the effectiveness of existing malaria control methods by developing and evaluating new insecticides and techniques. The project seeks to overcome insecticide resistance and increase knowledge about mosquito biology and behavior.
Researchers have identified a new virus as the cause of deadly outbreaks in six Chinese provinces, with a mortality rate of 12%. The virus, known as Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome virus, is transmitted through tick bites and affects humans without causing human-to-human transmission.
Elevated p21 protein levels in natural HIV controllers effectively suppress key viral life cycle steps. This ability is associated with increased p21 expression and may be linked to shared mechanisms of immune defense against cancer and HIV.
Research reveals T cells from elite controllers are resistant to HIV infection due to selective upregulation of p21, an enzyme inhibitor. Blocking p21 increases viral gene expression, highlighting potential treatment strategies for vulnerable patients.
A new Johns Hopkins study suggests that older, less expensive medications like metformin can be just as effective in controlling type 2 diabetes as newer, more expensive options. The research also found that metformin was associated with fewer side effects, including weight gain and cholesterol level increases.
Researchers at the University of California have discovered a new spider toxin that targets T-type and N-type calcium channels, which play a role in congestive heart failure, hypertension, epilepsy, and pain. The toxin offers a new target for studying these channels and developing drugs to treat human diseases.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that community gym surfaces do not appear to be reservoirs for MRSA transmission. The researchers collected 240 samples from three local gyms and found none to be positive for MRSA or MSSA, suggesting that aggressive disinfection programs may not be warranted.
A significant decline in new cases of sleeping sickness has sparked renewed efforts to eliminate the disease as a public health problem. Recent literature highlights promising signs of progress, including leadership from the WHO and coordinated control activities in endemic countries.
A mathematical model suggests culling will not control the spread of white-nose syndrome, a deadly fungus threatening North American hibernating bats. The fungal pathogen occurs in caves and mines where bats live, making contact rates high among colonial bats.
Researchers found that using non-alcohol antibacterial mouthwash containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) decreases the incidence of preterm birth. The study, funded by The Procter & Gamble Company, involved pregnant women with periodontal disease who received either treatment or a control group.
A new gene-spreading system has been proposed to control mosquito populations without pesticides. The system involves spreading disease-resisting genes in mosquito populations, rendering them infertile or killing females that mate with transgenic males.
The economic burden of dengue fever in the Western Hemisphere surpasses other viral illnesses, with estimated annual costs of $2.1 billion. Direct and indirect costs include ambulatory care, hospitalization, productivity losses, and government expenditures.
A study published in American Journal of Infection Control found that MRSA screening in ICUs can be cost-effective and save hospitals money. The research estimated that the screening could result in savings of almost $500 per hospital admission under optimal assumptions.
A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that malaria protection methods for pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa are underutilized. Despite WHO policy, estimated coverage of intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) is only 25% and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are used by just 17% of pregnant women at risk.
The Lancet series on health in Southeast Asia examines the region's diverse health systems, shifting disease burdens, and emerging infectious diseases. The series proposes increased regional cooperation for better maternal and child health outcomes.
A recent study evaluates integrated fruit production and organic fruit production systems for disease-resistant 'Liberty' apples. The research suggests that IFP could be widely implemented in the northeastern US, but OFP may be more feasible for small to midsized direct market operations due to higher costs.
A new study confirms that two doses of the varicella, or chickenpox, vaccine provide excellent protection in children against this highly contagious and, in some cases, severe disease. The study found that the effectiveness of two doses of vaccine was 98.3 percent in protecting against varicella, significantly higher than one dose.
A study by the Smoking Control Unit of the Catalan Institute of Oncology confirms that Europe's anti-tobacco laws have a direct effect on reducing tobacco consumption and passive smoke exposure. The European Union countries with stricter controls on smoking show lower consumption rates, particularly in the UK, Ireland, Malta, and Sweden.
Research published in Thorax estimates that UK workplace asthma costs the country at least £100 million a year, with potentially as high as £135 million. The study reveals that the condition is underdiagnosed and that the employer should bear more responsibility for reducing exposure to agents causing workplace asthma.
Experts recommend stocking up on cholera vaccines to rapidly deploy to high-risk areas, complementing treatment efforts in Haiti. A ready supply could limit the impact of an outbreak and promote humanitarian benefits.
A combination of increased domestic funding and foreign loans led to a dramatic increase in tuberculosis case finding in China. The study highlights the importance of evaluating the links between financing for health and TB control.
The Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC) has received a $50 million grant to develop new insecticides for malaria and other neglected tropical diseases. The new funding will support the development of three new Active Ingredients for public health insecticides by 2020.
The European Network for Rare and Congenital Anaemia (ENERCA) aims to disseminate latest developments in rare anemias through a network of close contacts. The project has been funded with €1.2 million Euros by the European Commission, and Spain is working on developing a Strategic plan for rare diseases.
A study of 90 patients with bullous pemphigoid found that nearly half had at least one neurologic disease, including cerebrovascular disease and dementia. The condition was often diagnosed after the neurologic disease, suggesting a potential predisposition.
Global neglect of chronic diseases is a pressing issue, with low-cost solutions available for prevention. The authors recommend reframing the debate to emphasize societal determinants and mobilizing resources through cooperative approaches.
The NCD Alliance warns that ignoring chronic diseases will lead to a future where healthy people are in the minority, while unhealthy children die before their parents. The alliance calls for effective actions on diet, physical activity, risks, and determinants related to non-communicable diseases.
A US Department of Agriculture scientist has identified at least six psyllid species in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, which are suspected to spread citrus greening disease. The psyllids were found on various trees, including torchwood and persimmon, which surround citrus groves.
Researchers identified a novel negative regulator called eye transformer that controls the flow of information from chemical signals to genes in the cell nucleus. When this regulator is turned off, the JAK/STAT pathway hyper-activates, leading to conditions such as cancer, severe immune deficiencies, and autoimmune diseases.
A recent study has found that elderly women are at higher risk of receiving unnecessary urinary catheters in emergency departments. The study revealed that nearly half of female patients over 80 years old did not meet institutional guidelines for urinary catheter placement.
Eliminating malaria will cost more than controlling the disease, with only moderate cost savings expected in one country. The authors suggest a paradigm shift in international funding is needed to support elimination efforts.
The Lancet Series on Malaria Elimination concludes that a vaccine is crucial for successful elimination, but current efforts are hindered by high transmission rates, poor health systems, and lack of leadership. The series highlights the need for balance, humility, and rigorous analysis to pursue malaria elimination.
Researchers conclude that cutting mosquito surveillance would lead to exponential increases in human cases and health costs. A delayed response can result in drastically escalated costs, with some estimates suggesting a 10-fold increase. The study highlights the need for sustained funding of mosquito surveillance programs.
Researchers funded by NIH have found that Anopheles gambiae is evolving into two distinct species, M and S, with differing traits and behaviors. These emerging species may alter disease transmission patterns, requiring new prevention strategies.
A new analysis suggests that Parkinson's disease can be understood in terms of damage to control circuits in the brain responsible for habits. Removing part of the brain can help patients regain smooth initiation of movements by reducing inhibitory signals from malfunctioning habitual control systems.
Researchers found that parasites can adjust their survival strategy in response to the host's immune system, leading to faster growth rates and increased reproduction. This insight may help inform the design of future vaccines against parasitic diseases such as elephantiasis and river blindness.
Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center CEO David G. Daniel received the APIC Healthcare Administrator Award for his efforts to virtually eliminate healthcare-associated infections at his facility. His leadership led to a significant reduction in surgical site infections, with infection rates declining every year since 2006.
A new study found significant inconsistencies in bloodstream infection surveillance methods across hospitals, making it challenging to compare performance. The variations have implications for pay-for-performance and reimbursement, as well as the accuracy of publicly reported data.
The conference focuses on managing global health security during mass gatherings, such as the Hajj pilgrimage. It covers various areas including communicable disease alert and response systems, water and sanitation management, and bioterrorism management.
A new study found that Latino patients with limited English skills have poor blood sugar control if seen by non-Spanish speaking doctors, even with available interpreter services. Direct communication with a Spanish-speaking doctor can improve health outcomes.
The 2009 H1N1 pandemic response was a mixed bag, with some key successes like swift international coordination and robust public health measures. However, there were also areas for improvement, such as limited preparedness at national levels and slower vaccine development.
A new study found substantial inconsistencies in how hospitals report catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CA-BSIs) in pediatric intensive care units (PICU). The analysis revealed that more aggressive surveillance efforts can actually lead to higher CA-BSI rates, complicating comparison of infection rates between hospitals.
Research suggests that periodontal disease may affect more American adults than previously estimated, with a potential 50% increase in prevalence. The study highlights the importance of maintaining good oral health and regular dental check-ups to prevent gum disease.
A recent study published by the American Chemical Society found that cranberry juice is effective in preventing urinary tract infections. The study revealed that cranberry juice cocktail can prevent E. coli bacteria from sticking to other bacteria and surfaces, allowing it to be flushed out of the urinary tract more easily.
Economists Santanu Roy and Lars J. Olson analyze the balance between controlling invasive species and free trade, finding that some restrictions may be necessary to prevent economic damage while allowing for entry when damages are low. Their study provides a qualitative framework for policymakers to determine optimal response strategies.
Researchers from the Antwerp Institute of Tropical Medicine found that targeted disease campaigns often displace basic healthcare services, leaving patients without access to curative care. Only a few health centers with experienced staff were able to integrate campaign work into their daily duties.
A study published in JAMA found that the incidence of hospital-onset and community-onset invasive MRSA infections decreased by 28% and 17%, respectively, between 2005 and 2008. The decrease was attributed to the dissemination of MRSA prevention practices in US hospitals.
A new study reveals falls as the leading cause of non-fatal injuries among older adults in China, with 70% of injuries occurring at home or on the street. The divorced and widowed elderly are identified as high-risk groups for injury, highlighting the need for targeted prevention programs.
The ESA has elected ten new Fellows for their outstanding research, teaching, and extension work in entomology. Dr. Gary Blomquist and Dr. David Boethel are recognized for their research on pheromones and insect IPM, respectively.
A new study reveals that coughing and other respiratory symptoms are more accurate indicators of H1N1 infection than fever, which can lead to undetected cases. According to the research, nearly half of individuals with mild H1N1 infections may not display fever, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive screening approach.
A new global atlas maps the distribution of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) to improve decision-making in control and elimination efforts. The atlas provides a reliable planning tool for national programs, increasing the impact of NTD control efforts.
A team of Duke University researchers and African colleagues will be studying strategies to curb the spread of malaria while protecting human and environmental health. The work aims to refine a model called the Malaria Decision Analysis Support Tool (MDAST) to improve malaria control effectiveness worldwide.
Methodist Dallas Medical Center stopped an Acinetobacter outbreak by testing patients, implementing contact precautions, and conducting regular meetings between departments. The hospital's swift response was attributed to adequate resources, staffing, and a supportive administration.
A new study led by Keith Ramsey at Pitt County Memorial Hospital (PCMH) demonstrates that universal surveillance for MRSA decreased health care-associated infections (HAIs) related to devices by 68% for ventilator-associated pneumonias, 51% for central line-associated bacteremias, and 49% for catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Case Western Reserve University has been named an International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research, a $7.9M seven-year grant to accelerate malaria control and elimination worldwide. The research will focus on regions where malaria is endemic in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Latin America.
Research reveals nearly 1 in 25 restaurant-associated foodborne outbreaks can be traced back to contaminated salsa or guacamole. Proper storage and handling of these foods are key to preventing illness.
Chagas disease affects 10-12 million people in Latin America, killing 15,000 annually. Dogs can spread the disease and may help control it by acting as sentinels for health officials.
The University of California, San Diego will lead a seven-year, $9.2 million NIH grant-funded effort to study and understand the complete disease cycle of malaria in the Amazon basin. The goal is to comprehensively address the ongoing public health problem of malaria, which affects over 3 billion people worldwide.
The ACCORD Eye Study found that intensive blood sugar control and combination lipid therapy slowed diabetic retinopathy progression by about one-third. Combination therapy reduced disease progression compared to statin therapy alone.
A study published in The Lancet found that intensive blood glucose control showed microvascular benefits, such as reduced albuminuria and cataract extractions, but no significant reduction in cardiovascular disease. Intensive therapy was also associated with increased weight gain and high risk of severe low blood sugar.