Avian influenza in birds Avian influenza is an infection caused by avian (bird) influenza (flu) viruses. These influenza viruses occur naturally among birds. Wild birds worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them. However, avian influenza is very …
A new report from CDC updates previous estimates of healthcare-associated infections. In American hospitals alone, healthcare-associated infections account for an estimated 1.7 million infections and 99,000 associated deaths each year. Of these infections: 32 percent of all healthcare-associated infection are urinary tract infections 22 percent …
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics. These antibiotics include methicillin and other more common antibiotics such as oxacillin, penicillin and amoxicillin. Staph infections, including MRSA, occur most frequently among persons in hospitals and healthcare facilities (such …
What is foodborne disease? Foodborne disease is caused by consuming contaminated foods or beverages. Many different disease-causing microbes, or pathogens, can contaminate foods, so there are many different foodborne infections. In addition, poisonous chemicals, or other harmful substances can cause foodborne diseases if they are …
We live in a microbial world, and there are many opportunities for food to become contaminated as it is produced and prepared. Many foodborne microbes are present in healthy animals (usually in their intestines) raised for food. Meat and poultry carcasses can become contaminated during …
What sort of germ is Shigella? The Shigella germ is actually a family of bacteria that can cause diarrhea in humans. They are microscopic living creatures that pass from person to person. Shigella were discovered over 100 years ago by a Japanese scientist named Shiga, …
Questions and Answers about Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in SchoolsAnswers to commonly asked questions about preventing the spread of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus skin infections. CDC, along with parents and school officials, wants to do everything possible to protect students from MRSA skin infections. These are …
What is Clostridium difficile (C. difficile)? Clostridium difficile [klo-STRID-ee-um dif-uh-SEEL] is a bacterium that causes diarrhea and more serious intestinal conditions such as colitis. What are C. difficile diseases? They are diseases that result from C. difficile infections such as Colitis, more serious intestinal conditions, …
Overview of Varicella (Chickenpox) in Healthcare Settings Varicella (i.e., chickenpox) is a highly contagious disease caused by varicella zostervirus (VZV). Transmission of Varicella within healthcare facilities is well recognized, and guidelines for the prevention of nosocomial VZV infection previously have been published. Sources for healthcare-associated …
What is Acinetobacter? Acinetobacter (ass in ee toe back ter) is a group of bacteria commonly found in soil and water. It can also be found on the skin of healthy people, especially healthcare personnel. While there are many types or “species” of Acinetobacter and …