Infection Control

Hand hygiene is one of the simplest, most basic practices that prevents the spread of infection. But we can’t forget what is left behind in the sinks in which hand washing is done. Sinks become a reservoir for pathogens, deposited in the pipes and coming from the hands that are washed using them. Biofilms form in the pipes and can be aerosolized from drips and running water, putting the dangerous makeup of those biofilms in a position to be spread.

Too often we’ve found building managers ignore floors when developing comprehensive infection control efforts. Floors are a perfect surface for virus, bacteria and fungi to lurk unnoticed. And, if left to their own devices, they are more than prepared to hitch a ride on shoes, clothing and equipment, spreading throughout a structure.

Food can very much act like a drug, having a powerful impact on the reward centers of the brain. As one of the great joys in life, good food can help keep you happy, healthy and fit. Bad food can have serious and far-reaching negative impacts on your overall well-being. Being vigilant about ingredients and working to establish good eating habits can go a long way toward better health.

Legionella was first identified in 1976 when there was an outbreak in Philadelphia.

Air quality is a recurring theme on this blog, as well it should be. It is so incredibly impactful to all aspects of health. Yet it often takes a backseat to surfaces, for one. But it really needs to come to the fore of the discussion – and stay there.

A year-and-a-half into the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines have taken front and center as a prevention strategy.

Outbreaks in prisons impact both guards and prisoners. 

Valley fever is a soil based fungi that can cause significant health problems in people and pets.

What is clear is mistakes have been made and our concern is we will learn the wrong lessons from this event.

This pandemic is different from others.  Most bugs are readily transmitted in schools and by children.   This one doesn’t work that way.  That being said, all pathogens morph and is only prudent to recognize all public space need a full throated infection control program.