CDC Releases Report on Hepatitis C Outbreak
According to a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Nevada State Health Division Bureau, the 2008 hepatitis C outbreak at a Las Vegas colonoscopy clinic and associated properties was “preventable” and “costly.” The combined cost of the investigation, counseling and testing associated with the outbreak is an estimated $16.3 million to $21.9 million.
The report said that the endoscopy staff of the Endoscopy Center of Southern Nevada and related clinics should have adhered to "well-established, safe, and common-sense injection practices."
Nine cases of hepatitis C were linked to the clinics, and 106 additional cases were considered possibly related. More than 50,000 people were told that they may have been exposed to hepatitis C, hepatitis B and HIV.
To read the report, CLICK HERE.
Unmasking Vaccine Myths: Dr Marschall Runge on Measles, Misinformation, and Public Health Solutions
May 29th 2025As measles cases climb across the US, discredited myths continue to undercut public trust in vaccines. In an exclusive interview with Infection Control Today, Michigan Medicine’s Marschall Runge, PhD, confronts misinformation head-on and explores how clinicians can counter it with science, empathy, and community engagement.
Silent Saboteurs: Managing Endotoxins for Sepsis-Free Sterilization
Invisible yet deadly, endotoxins evade traditional sterilization methods, posing significant risks during routine surgeries. Understanding and addressing their threat is critical for patient safety.
Endoscopes and Lumened Instruments: New Studies Highlight Persistent Contamination Risks
May 7th 2025Two new studies reveal troubling contamination in both new endoscopes and cleaned lumened surgical instruments, challenging the reliability of current reprocessing practices and manufacturer guidelines.
From the Derby to the Decontam Room: Leadership Lessons for Sterile Processing
April 27th 2025Elizabeth (Betty) Casey, MSN, RN, CNOR, CRCST, CHL, is the SVP of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer at Surgical Solutions in Overland, Kansas. This SPD leader reframes preparation, unpredictability, and teamwork by comparing surgical services to the Kentucky Derby to reenergize sterile processing professionals and inspire systemic change.
