Glossary

Smear infection

Transmission of pathogens by direct contact with an infected person (direct contact infection) or indirectly by touching contaminated objects (indirect contact infection).

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Knowledge Database

The A-to-Z database provides information on each pathogen, the most common infections that it triggers, its main transmission paths and recommendations on disinfection. In the glossary, you will find explanations of infection control terms. Search now!

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International Infection Prevention Week 2024

Close up of an orthopaedic surgery

Each year in October the International Infection Prevention Week raises awareness for the need to further improve infection prevention. Surgical site infections (SSI) are one of the most common types of healthcare-associated infections. Find out more about the campaign week and the effective measures that can be used to effectively prevent SSIs.

Streptococcal infections on the rise in Japan

Streptococci

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is caused by toxin-producing group A streptococci. The incidence of TSS is low worldwide, although a regional cluster has been observed in Japan since the beginning of this year. What is causing the increase in infections and how can we protect ourselves? Learn more in our article.

Washing of the hands (handwashing)

Mainly to remove visible soils and – only to a small extent – to reduce microbial colonisation of the skin (e.g. in case of contamination with spores of C. difficile). Handwashing is far less indicated than generally believed. Hence...