FDA Releases Its Fiscal Year 1999 Law Enforcement Numbers
Offices of Regulatory Affairs and Criminal Investigation Kept Busy
ROCKVILLE, MD-The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) and Office of Criminal Investigation (OCI) reported record high numbers of recalls and detentions of potentially hazardous products, criminal convictions, and fines for the 1999 fiscal year. Contributing to the total 3,736 recalls were 1,295 non-compliant blood and blood products and 1,263 medical devices. The FDA detained 41,474 import shipments, almost half of which contained fresh produce and food deemed unsafe or in violation of FDA standards. The ORA conducted 15,161 facility inspections and consequently issued over 7,000 noncompliance lists and 900 warning letters. In addition, eight injunctions were conducted one of which resulted in a record payment of $100 million for a civil violation of public health laws. Not to be outdone, the OCI won 211 court convictions breaking all records set since its inception seven years ago.
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.
