Ten years ago, in 2005, the countries of the world came together to put a new framework into place that would better prepare the world for public health emergencies. Nearly 70 percent of the world’s countries are unprepared to effectively detect, assess, report and respond to potential public health threats. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that we share a responsibility to protect ourselves â and one another â from outbreaks of infectious diseases and other health threats. Known as the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR), the new framework represents an agreement between 196 countries, including all World Health Organization (WHO) member states, to work together to prevent and control global health threats while protecting international travel and trade. This slide show examines why the IHR matter to the world’s health.
The Next Frontier in Infection Control: AI-Driven Operating Rooms
Published: July 15th 2025 | Updated: July 15th 2025Discover how AI-powered sensors, smart surveillance, and advanced analytics are revolutionizing infection prevention in the OR. Herman DeBoard, PhD, discusses how these technologies safeguard sterile fields, reduce SSIs, and help hospitals balance operational efficiency with patient safety.
Targeting Uncertainty: Why Pregnancy May Be the Best Time to Build Vaccine Confidence
July 15th 2025New national survey data reveal high uncertainty among pregnant individuals—especially first-time parents—about vaccinating their future children, underscoring the value of proactive engagement to strengthen infection prevention.
CDC Urges Vigilance: New Recommendations for Monitoring and Testing H5N1 Exposures
July 11th 2025With avian influenza A(H5N1) infections surfacing in both animals and humans, the CDC has issued updated guidance calling for aggressive monitoring and targeted testing to contain the virus and protect public health.
IP LifeLine: Layoffs and the Evolving Job Market Landscape for Infection Preventionists
July 11th 2025Infection preventionists, once hailed as indispensable during the pandemic, now face a sobering reality: budget pressures, hiring freezes, and layoffs are reshaping the field, leaving many IPs worried about their future and questioning their value within health care organizations.