News

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its influenza statistics for the 2012-2013 influenza season for Week 1 ending Jan. 5, 2013. Public health officials are reporting that from Dec. 30, 2012 through Jan. 5, 2013, influenza activity remained elevated in the U.S., but may be decreasing in some areas.

Infection Control Today asked members of industry to share their best advice to infection preventionists and purchasing managers when evaluating microfiber and healthcare textiles relating to infection prevention best practices.

The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has initiated a quest for alternatives to conventional antibiotics. One potential alternative is PlyC, a potent enzyme that kills the bacteria that causes strep throat and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. PlyC operates by locking onto the surface of a bacteria cell and chewing a hole in the cell wall large enough for the bacteria's inner membrane to protrude from the cell, ultimately causing the cell to burst and die.