
Tori Whitacre Martonicz

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.
Articles by Tori Whitacre Martonicz


Hantavirus infections transmitted through rodent exposure can be deadly. To reduce transmission, infection prevention personnel should focus on early detection, rodent control, and public awareness.

Whooping cough immunity can wane over time. Experts explain why a titer test may not be the best choice and boosters are essential for lasting protection.

Reusable 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.

Experts 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.

Reusable 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.

Norovirus, flu, and measles cases are surging, along with rising fears about avian flu, which are raising public health concerns. Valerie Cadet, PhD, shares expert advice on prevention, immunity, and debunking viral misinformation. Stay protected.

Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax are protozoan parasites linked to periodontal disease. Emerging research highlights their role in oral inflammation, tissue destruction, and worsening gum disease.

The 160th CDS Midwinter Meeting showcased dental advancements, scientific courses, and infection control discussions, drawing nearly 25,000 attendees and highlighting innovations, oral pathology, and patient safety strategies.

Herpes 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.

The Chicago Dental Society honored Dr. Joseph Hagenbruch and Dr. Mark Lingen for their leadership, research, and dedication to advancing dentistry and improving oral health care access.

Sherrie 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.

At the 2025 Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting, Dr. Marie Fluent passionately discussed infection control, emphasizing hand hygiene, waterlines, and the critical role of vaccinations in dental settings.

Doris 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.

AL-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!

The 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
A 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.

The US exit from the UNHRC and cuts to UNRWA funding jeopardize global health, humanitarian aid, and pandemic preparedness, isolating America and endangering millions worldwide.

Fungal 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.

New 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.

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The US CDC's sudden cutoff from WHO threatens global health security, leaving infection preventionists scrambling to track deadly outbreaks like Marburg virus, mpox, and avian flu.

Hospitals 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.

A 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.

The 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.

Read about the CDC’s Health Advisory. The advisory emphasizes the significance of early detection, infection control measures, and interdisciplinary collaboration to reduce risks, guarantee timely treatment, and prevent further spread.

Discover how innovative strategies in scheduling, staff engagement, and continuous learning transformed a hospital’s environmental services, enhancing efficiency, employee satisfaction, and patient care standards.

"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.

Read the latest on the rise of H5N1 avian flu. What happens if it combines with COVID-19? Experts answer the most pressing questions.

Drinking 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.