US Military Experience with Smallpox Vaccination
In early January 2003, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) began smallpox vaccinations of selected U.S. military forces, and emergency-essential civilians and contractors deployed or deploying in support of U.S. Central Command missions.
Although the exact number has not been released, it is been stated to be multiple tens of thousands. As of January 31, overall, 3 percent of vaccinated personnel required sick leave (1 to 2 percent of re-vaccinees). Only two noteworthy cases have been reported: one case of encephalitis possibly linked to vaccination (the soldier is recovering), and one case of generalized vaccinia that did not require therapy or leave from work.
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.
