Current opinion in infectious diseases
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Curr. Opin. Infect. Dis. · Oct 2014
ReviewCoronaviruses: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in travelers.
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is currently the focus of global attention. In this review, we describe virological, clinical, epidemiological features and interim travel advice and guidelines regarding MERS-CoV. We compare and contrast these with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). ⋯ Like SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV threatens global health security. All physicians and travelers to the Middle East should be aware of the new threat caused by MERS-CoV and follow CDC and WHO guidelines. Those who develop ill health during their trip or soon after their return should seek medical care.
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Curr. Opin. Infect. Dis. · Aug 2014
ReviewImproving ventilator-associated event surveillance in the National Healthcare Safety Network and addressing knowledge gaps: update and review.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently transitioned from ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) surveillance to ventilator-associated event (VAE) surveillance in adult inpatient settings. Since the transition, several modifications have been made to improve surveillance methods, and there is a growing body of data regarding the epidemiology, risk factors, and preventability of VAEs. ⋯ We review the CDC's recent updates on VAE surveillance definitions, methods, and tools, and provide an overview of the growing evidence base for VAE as a patient safety measure. Further work is needed to affirm and extend the current knowledge about how best to prevent VAEs.
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Curr. Opin. Infect. Dis. · Aug 2014
ReviewScreening for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus … all doors closed?
To describe the latest evidence for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection control strategies, with particular emphasis on active surveillance cultures with contact precautions and targeted decolonization, and their impact. ⋯ Universal decolonization is an acceptable MRSA control strategy for intensive care units; however, close monitoring of chlorhexidine and mupirocin resistance is warranted. As a strategy, screening and contact precautions are suitable for hospital-wide MRSA control. Targeted decolonization is a proven measure for patients undergoing clean surgery. Enhancement of hand hygiene is a core measure regardless of the strategy.
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As viral respiratory infections are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality, and are associated with numerous challenges for infection control, we provide an overview of the most recent publications on healthcare-associated respiratory infections. ⋯ Infection control measures can be supplemented with use of polymerase chain reaction testing to determine causes, but the cornerstone of prevention relies on enforcing appropriate isolation measures for patients: hand hygiene; appropriate use of personal protective equipment by healthcare workers; illness screening of visitors; and influenza vaccination of healthcare workers, patients and families.
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Curr. Opin. Infect. Dis. · Jun 2014
ReviewManaging multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in children: review of recent developments.
Childhood multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis is an emerging disease with increasing numbers being recognized. This review presents recent developments in childhood MDR tuberculosis. ⋯ Rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment results in good outcomes in the majority of children with MDR tuberculosis. Additional research on optimal diagnosis, prevention and treatment of MDR tuberculosis in children remains a high priority.