Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
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Infection control (IC) activities are facing new challenges, but the resources dedicated to IC are too frequently insufficient. Heterogeneity of resources among centres and countries is huge, a fact that at least partly explains the differences in the results obtained. In this article, we review and discuss the available recommendations for minimum requirements in IC related to organizational aspects, IC staffing and the training of these staff, ward staffing, structural issues, and microbiological support. A professional-based consensus on the minimum requirements for IC in European centres based on present challenges and societal demands is needed.
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Borrelia miyamotoi is a relapsing fever Borrelia group spirochete that is transmitted by the same hard-bodied (ixodid) tick species that transmit the agents of Lyme disease. It was discovered in 1994 in Ixodes persulcatus ticks in Japan. B. miyamotoi species phylogenetically cluster with the relapsing fever group spirochetes, which usually are transmitted by soft-bodied (argasid) ticks or lice. ⋯ B. miyamotoi infection should be considered in patients with acute febrile illness who have been exposed to Ixodes ticks in a region where Lyme disease occurs. Because clinical manifestations are nonspecific, etiologic diagnosis requires confirmation by blood smear examination, PCR, antibody assay, in vitro cultivation, and/or isolation by animal inoculation. Antibiotics that have been used effectively include doxycycline for uncomplicated B. miyamotoi infection in adults and ceftriaxone or penicillin G for meningoencephalitis.
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Clin. Microbiol. Infect. · May 2015
Review Meta AnalysisThe diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin for bacteraemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
The diagnostic use of procalcitonin for bacterial infections remains a matter of debate. Most studies have used ambiguous outcome measures such as sepsis instead of infection. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin for bacteraemia, a proven bloodstream infection. ⋯ In spite of study heterogeneity, procalcitonin had a fair diagnostic accuracy for bacteraemia in adult patients suspected of infection or sepsis. In particular low procalcitonin levels can be used to rule out the presence of bacteraemia. Further research is needed on the safety and efficacy of procalcitonin as a single diagnostic tool to avoid taking blood cultures.
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Clin. Microbiol. Infect. · May 2015
Review Meta AnalysisThe diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin for bacteraemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
The diagnostic use of procalcitonin for bacterial infections remains a matter of debate. Most studies have used ambiguous outcome measures such as sepsis instead of infection. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin for bacteraemia, a proven bloodstream infection. ⋯ In spite of study heterogeneity, procalcitonin had a fair diagnostic accuracy for bacteraemia in adult patients suspected of infection or sepsis. In particular low procalcitonin levels can be used to rule out the presence of bacteraemia. Further research is needed on the safety and efficacy of procalcitonin as a single diagnostic tool to avoid taking blood cultures.
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Clin. Microbiol. Infect. · Feb 2015
ReviewA comprehensive review of the Kumbh Mela: identifying risks for spread of infectious diseases.
The Kumbh Mela in India is the largest mass gathering in the world which witnessed close to 100 million visitors in 2013. An event of this magnitude presents challenges. ⋯ The context of religion and psychology of the pilgrims is also closely associated with the evolution of the risk factors and so forms an important part of the discussion. We provide a brief background to the Kumbh Mela with a description of the existing and potential risk factors that require our attention.