E. coli Outbreak in Canada
Provides Study Opportunity for Company
CALGARY, CANADA-An outbreak of E. coli has provided an unique opportunity for a pharmaceutical company developing a drug to treat the bacteria. Canadian-based Synsorb Biotech was asked to supply its Synsorb Pk(R) to hospitals in Walkerton, Ontario, where hundreds of residents have become ill after drinking contaminated water. The Canadian Health Authorities issued approval for emergency use of the treatment designed to prevent serious complications associated with verotoxigenic E. coli (VTEC) infections. Synsorb Pk(R) attaches to the bacteria's toxins and neutralizes them allowing safe passage through the digestive tract. According to Synsorb, approximately 10% of the patients who become infected with E. coli develop Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a potentially deadly kidney disease. Consequently, the treatment has been given fast track product designation by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Synsorb has been delayed producing clinical trial results because large-scale outbreaks are rare.
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.
