Government to Improve Immunization System
President Clinton has ordered the federal government to study the immunization rates of children under 5 who receive government aid.
The Agriculture Department will look at children involved in the Women, Infants and Children federal nutrition program (WIC) to develop a plan to improve immunization rates.
Although immunizations rates are at an all-time high, low-income, minority children are less likely to be immunized. Nationally, 90% of children receive their necessary shots; however, that number drops to 65% for children in inner-city areas. Health officials say these children are at a higher risk for diphtheria, poliomyelitis, measles, mumps, and rubella.
In 41 states nationally, children involved with the WIC program have lower immunization rates. However, studies indicated that linking immunization services with the WIC program could help improve vaccination coverage by 40% within 12 months. Children who are uninsured would receive vaccinations at not cost under the Vaccines for Children program.
In the first 5 years of life, children should have hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae B, polio, pneumococcal conjugate, measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox vaccines. Parents with any questions on their child's immunization record should contact their doctor.
Information from the AP, www.immunize.org.
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.
