Infection Control Today, June 2026 (Vol. 30 No.2)

Emerging research shows the human microbiome plays a critical role in preventing health care-associated infections, antimicrobial resistance, and dysbiosis, offering new opportunities for infection prevention and patient care.

Emerging breath analysis technologies could provide faster, less invasive detection of bacterial infections and help clinicians monitor antibiotic response, though significant research and regulatory hurdles remain before widespread clinical adoption.

What should infection preventionists do when a patient presents with possible anthrax exposure after a suspicious incident? This article explores a realistic bioterrorism response scenario, highlighting the critical role of infection preventionists, public health partnerships, and laboratory coordination. It also introduces Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis (Bcbva), an emerging pathogen that can mimic anthrax while appearing to be a common laboratory contaminant. Learn how to recognize potential biosecurity threats, navigate specimen management, and build the public health relationships needed before an emergency occurs.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will present one of the most complex infectious disease challenges ever faced by infection preventionists and public health officials. Spanning 3 countries, 16 host cities, and millions of international travelers, the tournament creates opportunities for the spread of respiratory illnesses, foodborne diseases, sexually transmitted infections, vector-borne pathogens, and rare high-consequence diseases. While the matches will last only a few weeks, surveillance efforts will need to continue for months afterward as infections such as tuberculosis and other travel-associated diseases emerge.

Test your infection prevention and control knowledge with this IPC-themed crossword puzzle featuring terms and concepts related to hand hygiene, sterilization, PPE, outbreak prevention, and healthcare-associated infections. Designed for health care professionals, the puzzle offers an engaging way to reinforce key IPC principles while promoting education and awareness.