WHO Survey Reveals Avian Influenza was the Top Health Issue of 2005
More than 600 people from 20-plus countries participated in the World Health Organization (WHO)s online survey, "How healthy is your world?" Participants were asked two questions: What were the top health issues of 2005? and What global health issues were the most neglected?
The results are as follows:
Top 10 health issues of 2005
1. Avian influenza
2. HIV/AIDS
3. Tobacco
4. Chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes and heart disease
5. Environmental health issues
6. Poverty
7. Disasters/emergencies
8. Malaria
9. Malnutrition
10. Inequity in access to healthcare
Top 10 neglected health issues of 2005
1. Tobacco
2. HIV/AIDS
3. Environmental health issues
4. Chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes and heart disease
5. Poverty
6. Avian influenza
7. Malaria
8. Violence
9. Malnutrition
10. Inequity in access to healthcare
Source: World Health Organization
Â
A Helping Hand: Innovative Approaches to Expanding Hand Hygiene Programs in Acute Care Settings
July 9th 2025Who knew candy, UV lights, and a college kid in scrubs could double hand hygiene adherence? A Pennsylvania hospital’s creative shake-up of its infection prevention program shows that sometimes it takes more than soap to get hands clean—and keep them that way.
Broadening the Path: Diverse Educational Routes Into Infection Prevention Careers
July 4th 2025Once dominated by nurses, infection prevention now welcomes professionals from public health, lab science, and respiratory therapy—each bringing unique expertise that strengthens patient safety and IPC programs.
How Contaminated Is Your Stretcher? The Hidden Risks on Hospital Wheels
July 3rd 2025Despite routine disinfection, hospital surfaces, such as stretchers, remain reservoirs for harmful microbes, according to several recent studies. From high-touch areas to damaged mattresses and the effectiveness of antimicrobial coatings, researchers continue to uncover persistent risks in environmental hygiene, highlighting the critical need for innovative, continuous disinfection strategies in health care settings.
