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New Agent for Treatment of Chagas Disease Disappoints in Clinical Trial

A randomized, controlled trial of E1224 (a ravuconazole prodrug) in different doses and durations was studied in adult patients with chronic indeterminate Chagas disease. Parasite clearance was observed in treated patients, but the response was transient in most patients.

Mefloquine: Still Effective and Still Safe for Malaria Chemoprophylaxis

Mefloquine is known as an effective agent for malaria chemoprophylaxis. However, concerns about serious adverse effects have limited its use. Now, a careful review of data suggests that fatal outcomes related to mefloquine prophylaxis are very rare.

MRSA Infections May Lead to Prolonged Impairment of Lymphatic Vessel Function

In the first study to investigate the potential interactions between bacterial infections and lymphatic function, researchers found that methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus toxins killed muscle cells critical to the pumping of lymph fluid and led to prolonged lymphatic dysfunction months after the bacteria had been cleared.

Prolonged vs. Short Duration Infusion of Beta-lactam Antibiotics: The Verdict Is In

When compared to shorter infusion duration, prolonged infusion of anti-pseudomonal β-lactam antibiotics was associated with reduced mortality.

Antivaccine Attitudes: The Truth Is Out There

In a fascinating study of the roots of psychological attitudes, researchers report that people who are against vaccinations are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories.

The High Cost of C. diff Infection and Relapse

Clostridium difficile claims a staggering toll in patient infections annually, and a new study estimates the cost of treatment is nearly $25,000 based on five days of hospitalization. Recurrent infections, not an uncommon phenomenon with C. diff, add an additional two days and another $10,500.

Joint Commission Dings Hand Hygiene Lapses

Infection preventionists should be aware that as part of its ongoing enforcement of patient safety goals, The Joint Commission will be assessing hand hygiene compliance during 2018 accreditation surveys.

Mind the Gap: SHEA Guidance on Ending Isolation

While there is a dearth of data to make completely informed decisions on aspects of this issue, the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) has issued a guidance document that hospitals can use as a framework for making policy.

APIC-SHEA Forming Formidable Partnership

The two major infection control associations in the United States are forging a forward-thinking partnership. It includes several major initiatives that will be enacted this year, with efforts underway to bring in patient and consumer advocates and collaborate in presentations and published papers.

A Call to Action to Prevent Non-vent Pneumonia

What if there were a routine addition to patient care that could save some 10,000 lives annually? An increasing body of research says there is.