Customized Drugs for Cancer Patients
US clinical trials are now under way for personalized cancer vaccines made using a patient's own cancer cells. Already being marketed in Australia and Holland, these custom-made treatments are injected over a series of weeks or months and have proven to be far less toxic than traditional therapies.
The personalized cancer vaccines work in theory much like a flu shot. The vaccine is introduced into the patient's body over several weeks, forcing the body's immune system to recognize the intruder. Early evidence shows that the body "remembers" the cancer cells and attacks them if they return after treatment.
Most research is now being focused on late-stage cancer patients who have few remaining treatment options. It is still unknown whether personalized vaccines for cancer patients can be produced on a large scale at a reasonable price. Three companies, Avax, Intracel, and Antigenics, are hoping to have a commercial version of their vaccines available within the next two to three years. Current US trials include kidney, colon, late-stage melanoma, and ovarian cancers. For more information about clinical trials go to www.avax-tech.com and www.antigenics.com.
I Was There: An Infection Preventionist on the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 30th 2025Deep feelings run strong about the COVID-19 pandemic, and some beautiful art has come out of those emotions. Infection Control Today is proud to share this poem by Carmen Duke, MPH, CIC, in response to a recent article by Heather Stoltzfus, MPH, RN, CIC.
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.
Show, Tell, Teach: Elevating EVS Training Through Cognitive Science and Performance Coaching
April 25th 2025Training EVS workers for hygiene excellence demands more than manuals—it requires active engagement, motor skills coaching, and teach-back techniques to reduce HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.
