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MAY 2024

2IPC News | acipc.org.auWhile we try to keep costs as low as possible, the College also oers a limited number of scholarships to facilitate attendance. You can find more information here. It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the significant increase in activity in health services, aged care sectors, and the community that we are seeing at the moment. Alongside the continued eort to vaccinate health workers and the community against seasonal flu, many have been faced with increased numbers of COVID-19 cases and new variants. The ABC published an investigative piece at the beginning of the month on Healthcare Associated COVID-19 in Victoria. No doubt this is not just a Victorian issue. I was interviewed and quoted in the article, Hundreds of patients died after catching COVID in Victorian hospitals, new data shows. The data reported in the article is very concerning. We know how to prevent COVID-19 from spreading and patients should be able to attend health services without the fear of catching COVID-19 when receiving care. ACIPC will continue to advocate for health settings to be free of any avoidable infections.As always, if you have any feedback (good or bad), feel free to reach out to me at: president@acipc.org.au Until next month, thank you for your leadership and advocacy in the Infection Prevention and Control space. Best wishesACIPC President 2IPC News | acipc.org.auStéphane Bouchoucha Welcome to the May 2024 Edition of IPC News. First, I want to thank Donna Cameron, Leanne Houston, Liz Orr and Deborah Rhodes (please forgive me if I omitted anyone) for organising the first event for the Victorian SIG at the beginning of May. Sadly, I was unwell and couldn’t attend but heard that the event was very well attended and enabled members to discuss a study recently published and network. We have just signed o on the proposal for the WA SIG and I encourage Western Australian members to keep an eye out for details of upcoming events. I want to remind you all that we welcome State and interest-based groups, and you can find information here on how to get a Special Interest Group (SIG) going here.ACIPC’s conference committee has been busy over the last few months preparing the scientific program for this year’s annual conference. The theme this year is: Succession, sustainability, and the advancement of infection prevention and control, and we have started announcing keynote speakers for the event. I would like to encourage you to attend face to face or virtually as it is shaping to be one of the best IPC events in the Asia Pacific region this year. If you have some research or practice improvements/challenges that you would like to present, the call for abstract/poster is now open. If you are not sure about how to write an abstract, we have you covered! A/Prof Holly Seale recently presented a lunchtime webinar on ‘How to write an abstract,’ and members can view the recording here. ACIPC also acknowledges that cost of living pressures can mean than attending the conference is a costly exercise for many.

3May 2024Contents ACIPC President 2ACIPC International Conference 4May Lunch & Learn Webinar 6June Lunch & Learn Webinar 8Research Grants 9Blood Borne Virus Testing Course 102024 Nurse/Midwife of the Year 11Aged Care Community of Practice Webinar 12Aged Care Connexion Forum 13Member Profile - Mae Sia 14ACIPC President’s ABC News Interview 16GAMA & ACIPC IPC Tour - 2024 Highlights 17World Hand Hygiene Day - 2024 Highlights 22Bug of the Month - Japanese Encephalitis 26International Nurses’ Day 29Congratulations Durga 30IPAC Canada 2024 National Conference 30FluTracking Australia & NZ 31Federal Budget 2024 32 Recently Credentialled & Re-Credentialled Members 34ACIPC 2024/25 Membership Renewal 35Infection Control Matters Podcast 36Latest Articles from Infection, Disease & Health 38 Selected Publications of Interest 393May 2024

4IPC News | acipc.org.au
ACIPC INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCESUCCESSION, SUSTAINABILITY,  AND THE ADVANCEMENT  OF INFECTION PREVENTION  AND CONTROLOn behalf of the Board of Directors, it gives us great pleasure toinvite you to attend the 2024 ACIPC International Conference.RegistrationThis year’s conference will feature newregistration categories designed to makeattendance easier for delegates whetherjoining us in Melbourne or online.  These initiatives include:•  Onsite Shared Registrations:  This option grants access for threeindividuals to attend, with eachperson allotted a single-day entry,allowing multiple team membersto benefit from the event withoutseparate registrations.•  Online Day Registration:  Attendees can choose specificconference days aligning with theirinterests, focusing on sessions mostrelevant to their professional goals.•  Dinner Inclusive Registrations: Delegates can opt to include dinnerwith their registration, customisingtheir conference experienceaccording to their preferences.An early registration discounted fee willbe oered and will be available until the1st of October 2024.You can find out more about conferenceregistration here.By attending the conference, you willlearn from national and internationalexperts, network with likemindedprofessionals, and meet withAustralasia’s largest collection of IPCindustry suppliers.The conference is the peak eventfor infection prevention and controlprofessionals (ICPs) in the region andincludes Australasia’s largest tradeexhibition dedicated to showcasingIPC industry suppliers.Delegates include nurses, IPCmanagers, and consultants, agedcare workers, scientists, academics,educators, policymakers, medicalpractitioners, hospital managers,and those responsible for managingand delivering IPC programs in non-healthcare settings.More information regarding theconference including invitedspeakers, social events, andengagement initiatives can be foundon the conference website here.

ACIPC INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE17–20 NOV 2024MELBOURNE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE, VIC & ONLINESUCCESSION, SUSTAINABILITY, AND THE ADVANCEMENT OF INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL5May 2024Conference SponsorsPLATINUM SPONSORCall for Abstracts – closing Friday 14 June!We invite you to showcase your achievements, innovations, quality assurance, and research activities, by submitting an abstract and presenting at the 2023 ACIPC International Conference. Abstract submissions are invited for the following presentation types:• Scientific Presentations: Presentations may be original research, case presentations, divisional projects, or analytical studies. • Case Studies and Quality Improvement Presentations: Structured presentations from Front Line Workers and Carers, Policy Makers, Healthcare Managers, and Consumers. • Lightning Talks: 5-minute presentations designed to give novice presenters and early career researchers the opportunity to develop their presentation skills by delivering an abbreviated oral presentation at the conference. • Industry Presentations: Conference sponsors and exhibitors are invited to submit an abstract for presentation at the Pop-Up Stage during conference breaks. Presentations can be interesting case studies or research initiatives.For more information and to submit, visit the conference website hereAbstract submissions close on Friday 14 June 2024.GOLD SPONSORSILVER SPONSORSBRONZE SPONSORS

6IPC News | acipc.org.auTypes of abstractsScientific Presentations: 15 minutes plus 3 minutes question time.Case Study and quality improvement presentations: 15 minutes plus 3 minutes question timeLightning talks: 4-minute presentations designed to give novice presenters and early career research the opportunity to develop their presentations skills by delivering an abbreviated oral presentation at the conference.Posters: Presenting a poster at the conference oers the opportunity to share research findings, insights, or innovative projects with a diverse audience, fostering networking, collaboration, and valuable feedback from peers, experts, and professionals in the field.Abstract guidelines• Abstracts must be no longer than 250 words.• Abstracts need to be written in English.• Abstracts must be original and unpublished.• You must declare a potential conflict of interest.• Ensure that your abstract is grammatically correct and free of other errors.• Use single spacing for all text.• Do not use abbreviations in the title of the abstract.• When using abbreviations in the abstract, spell them out in full at the first mention.• Capitalize the first letter in trade names.• Abstracts should NOT contain references, tables, or figures.• Accepted abstracts will appear exactly as submitted.An online template is available in word format on the conference website. It has all the correct fonts, spacing and text size.MAY LUNCH & LEARN WEBINARHow to submit an abstractIn May, we learned about how to submit an abstract, with presenter A/Prof Holly Seale. Here is a summary of the webinar, which members can view on our website.ACIPC 2024 International Conference17 – 20 November 2024Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, VIC and onlineThe call for abstracts for the 2924 ACIPC International Conference will close on 14 June, but there is still time to submit an abstract.Why submit an abstract to ACIPC 2024?• You do great work!• Contribute to knowledge• Skill development• Professional and portfolio development…credentialling• Career advancement• Peer review• Networking (collaboration, job opportunities)• Personal achievement Important datesCalls for abstracts close – 14 JuneNotification of acceptance – August 2024Presenter Registration closes – 1 October 20246IPC News | acipc.org.au

7May 2024MAY LUNCH & LEARN WEBINARComing up with an abstract ideaThe first – and possibly hardest – part of the process is choosing which project, case study, or research to turn into an abstract submission.This is where the conference guidelines come in! It is vital to carefully read the abstract guidelines for the conference you are submitting to.Each conference has dierent guidelines, which typically outline the conference themes, topics and presentation types being accepted.Purpose of an abstract• Short summary of a longer work• Fully understandable on its own• Briefly outline all parts of the paper/report• Concisely report the aims and outcomes so that readers know exactly what the paper/presentation is aboutWhat makes a good abstract?• Suitable for the audience – the background, methods, outcomes and conclusion should be of interest to ACIPC conference delegates• Readability – your abstract should be easy to read (for any person familiar with the IPC discipline) with no errors in punctuation, spelling and grammar• Clear content – the abstract should oer relevant context and study/methods details to ensure the reader know what you have done, and why.Abstract structure1. BackgroundA description of the research problem or workplace situation, study objective or hypothesis tested.Why the research topic is important and why you chose to investigate it.Aims/purpose: this needs to clearly give the reader an impression of the aim/purpose of the research.2. MethodsKey information regarding the methods used/proposed to be used should be highlighted here.Typically this would include some mention of the participants involved (the sample), equipment and procedures and timescales over which the study took place .3. ResultsThe key results are often presented in this section. Statistical support is preferred where possible but endless lists of mean values and associated p-values should be avoided.Be selective and make sure that the results selected for presentation fit well with the general story conveyed withing the abstract as a whole.4. ConclusionThis section is used to wrap up the story, to convey the most important interpretation of the results and to make any important suggestions for relevance to the field is further work that now needs to be carried out.Include a brief description of the main outcome.Avoid finishing with ‘further research is now required,’ as often this is obvious and superfluous to the overall story.What is the assessment panel looking for?• Clarity of purpose and objectives• Appropriateness of methodology and design• Significance of contribution7May 2024

8IPC News | acipc.org.auFinal tips from Holly:• Go ahead and reach out to a colleague to look at it before submitting, a second set of eyes can often help.• If you are submitting as a team, make sure that everyone has had a look, once submitted to the portal it can’t be withdrawn.• Reach out to the College, we are always happy to support you. • Adding a catchy title can help improve your chances of getting an oral presentation. Visit the conference website and take a look at past conferences for examples and inspiration.• Make sure your abstract conforms to all reuirements, put up a conflict of interest statement if necessary.• Submit via the portal on the conference website: https://acipcconference.com.au/abstracts/#presentationformatsJUNE LUNCH & LEARN WEBINARTopic: How to write a successful research grantPresenter: Amanda Corley Date: Wed 26 June at 12.00pm AESTAbstract: Learn how to increase your chances of success when writing a research grant. Get some quick tips on how to craft a grant proposal which is clear, compelling, appeals to the funder and sets you up for success. This session will be particularly useful for anyone considering applying for the ACIPC Seed or Early Career Researcher grants which are currently open to ACIPC members.About the presenter: Amanda is a critical care nurse and researcher of over 25 years’ experience. She is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Grith University and is based at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. She holds a PhD and has a strong national and international track record in patient-focused clinical and health services research. She has published over 90 peer-reviewed publications and 4 book chapters, with career funding of around $2.5m in competitive and industry grants. Her research interests include respiratory management in ICU and vascular access devices, particularly haemodialysis catheters and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulae.CLICK HERE TO REGISTER https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WDTl4HARTFuraBmh8owTfA8IPC News | acipc.org.auMAY LUNCH & LEARN WEBINAR - How to submit an abstract

9May 2024RESEARCH GRANTS A key strategic focus of the College is to enable members to identify areas for research that will lead to improved knowledge, evidence-based education and practice, and improved outcomes. In alignment with this strategy, the College provides opportunities for our members to undertake research with the assistance of research grants.Early Career Research GrantThe aim of the Early Career ResearchGrant is to support Early CareerResearchers (ECR) undertake researchrelevant to infection prevention andcontrol. ECRs are researchers who arewithin five years of the start of theirresearch careers. Seed GrantThe aim of the Seed Grant is to support members who wish to undertake high quality pilot, exploratory, or small-scale infection prevention and control research. This grant aims to address a gap betweenearly concepts and large-scale fundingprovided by larger bodies such asthe National Health Medical ResearchCouncil (NHMRC) and the AustralianResearch Council (ARC). The grant is also aimed at providing support to researchers who have not yet had success with specific national category 1 competitive funding NHMRC and ARC grants.RESEARCH GRANT APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!FOR FURTHER INFORMATION INCLUDING THE APPLICATION PROCESS CLICK HEREPriority AreasApplications that address one of the three priority areas will be highly regarded, however, those that focus on other topics are also eligible to apply:• Low and Middle income settings• Indigenous Health• Aged CareApplications will close at 9am on Monday 19 August.MAY LUNCH & LEARN WEBINAR - How to submit an abstract

10IPC News | acipc.org.auBlood Borne Virus TESTING COURSEIf you have any questions, please email learning@acipc.org.au or go to our website for more information acipc.org.au The course has been designed for healthcare practitioners involved in undertaking testing in all healthcare settings including midwifery, acute care, community health, women’s health, correctional health, rural and remote health, refugee health, sexual health, and infection prevention and control practitioners.DURING THE COURSE YOU WILL LEARN ABOUT: Epidemiology, transmission, management options and prevention of HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C Dierent tests available to correctly diagnose, testing intervals post exposure and window periods for testing Post incident pre- and post-test discussion for both the recipient and the source following the incident The personal impact and medical consequences of HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C Conducting a risk assessment for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C Strategies and resources for eective health promotion and prevention education Basic counselling skills including listening, questioning, reflecting and summarising COST: $350MOREINFORMATIONBOOK NOW FOR THE COURSE COMMENCING 12TH JULY 2024 LIMITED SPACES LEFT

11May 2024Blood Borne Virus TESTING COURSEIf you have any questions, please email learning@acipc.org.au or go to our website for more information acipc.org.au The course has been designed for healthcare practitioners involved in undertaking testing in all healthcare settings including midwifery, acute care, community health, women’s health, correctional health, rural and remote health, refugee health, sexual health, and infection prevention and control practitioners.DURING THE COURSE YOU WILL LEARN ABOUT: Epidemiology, transmission, management options and prevention of HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C Dierent tests available to correctly diagnose, testing intervals post exposure and window periods for testing Post incident pre- and post-test discussion for both the recipient and the source following the incident The personal impact and medical consequences of HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C Conducting a risk assessment for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C Strategies and resources for eective health promotion and prevention education Basic counselling skills including listening, questioning, reflecting and summarising COST: $350MOREINFORMATIONCongratulations Perri Waddell2024 NURSE/MIDWIFE OF THE YEARACIPC extends warm congratulations to Perri Waddell, who was recently awarded the 2024 Nurse/Midwife of the Year in the WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards.Perri is an ACIPC course facilitator, as well as an experienced RN, with over 30 years’ experience and a special interest in Aged Care Nurse development.She is a also credentialled primary infection control practitioner (CICP-P).Well done, Perri!

12IPC News | acipc.org.auTopic: Navigating the role of the IPC LeadPresenter: Carrie Spinks, ACIPC IPC ConsultantIn 2021 we saw the introduction of the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Lead into every residential aged care facility across Australia, as a requirement of accreditation.The Department of Health and Aged Care provide an outline of general requirements for the role, enabling providers to determine the role based on individual facility need, environment and capability.The session will provide suggestions for role and task descriptions, how to promote and enable the role and collaborative approaches with facility managers. We will look at templates and resources to guide this process. The floor is open for comments, input and sharing ideas and concerns.About the presenter:Carrie is an experienced infection control consultant, holding a BSc (RN), a Master of Science (Advanced Nurse Practitioner) and a Master of Advanced Practice (Infection Prevention and Control), Nurse Immuniser and Training and Assessment, along with other post graduate courses. Carrie also facilitates ACIPC’s Foundations of IPC course, and the Short Course in Infection Prevention and Control in Aged Care Settings. Carrie has a passion for aged care, and has worked in roles in management, quality and infection control. She’s particularly interested in the development of infection control programs, resources and education in aged care settings.CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS WEBINAR

13May 2024AGED CARE CONNEXION FORUMHave you checked out our Aged Care Connexion Forum yet?ACIPC’s online forums are the College’s platform to facilitate communication, share ideas, seek advice from peers, and benefit from the experience of other members. Our Aged Care Connexion Forum allows members to post and answer questions, subscribe to email notifications, and search online archives suitable to their specialty.We invite members working in aged care (residential and home care) to join the Aged Care Connexion Forum and participate in IPC conversations and network with those in the industry.FIND OUT MORE ABOUT AGED CARE CONNEXION HERE

14IPC News | acipc.org.auMEMBER PROFILEMAE SIAThis month, we chat with Mae Sia, who is a Clinical Nurse Consultant for Northern Sydney Local Health Districts Infection Prevention and Control & Physical Health (MHDA). Mae has recently been nominated for a NSW Health Exceptional People Award.Congratulations on your nomination for the Exceptional People Awards! What does this honour mean to you personally and professionally?Personally, I feel an immense sense of fulfilment that years of hard work is recognised. With the challenges and sacrifices of the recent years, a nomination like this goes a long way in reinforcing my drive and passion and encourages me to do better every day for my patients, colleagues and organisation. I also hope that it serves as an inspiration to my daughter.Professionally, it was both an honour and privilege to be part of the frontline team in providing support, and a great achievement knowing I was able to contribute towards implementation of infection prevention and control protocols and strategies towards safe and connected care to the consumers.What led you to IPC as a career?I was once a very curious IPAC Champion in the unit and that led me to do secondment roles in the North Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) IPC Team. I’m lucky to be supported by senior mentors who generously imparted their knowledge, skills, and expertise. I am thankful for the trust of NSLHD IPAC Director, Jo Tallon, through these years and working under her impressive leadership.How is IPC dierent in a mental health, drug and alcohol setting dierent from say, an acute care setting? Are their challenges you could share with us?It is very challenging due to the uncontrolled environment of Mental Health Drug and Alcohol (MHDA). In the time of the pandemic, we implemented flexible IPAC strategies to risk mitigate where isolation is a standard requirement. We needed to address communication gaps and build connection with the MHDA multidisciplinary team. This helped bridge the gap to reiterate compliance, protecting and supporting the patients’ mental health and keeping everyone safe in the facility.14IPC News | acipc.org.au

15May 202415March 202415May 2024What are you most passionate about in your IPC work?I am passionate about patient safety and better outcomes. These can be achieved by focussing on:• Quality improvement and safety• Risk mitigation• Awareness campaigns• Surveillance and audit of data trends and resultsAre there any future trends or research in your field that are exciting you right now?I’m very interested in methods of balancing Net Zero Sustainability with the implementation of IPAC processes. There’s always a challenge, and we certainly have work to do in this area, in my opinion.Lastly, at the end of a busy week, how do you like to relax and unwind? Any hobbies or interests you’d care to share with us?It is important to have a good work-life balance. I usually kick o the weekend joining the local park run and walking clubs. I also play paddle or head on a beach-side trail walk to simply enjoy the scenery with a cuppa and photography on the side.I love art, painting and creating photo collages, reels, and collecting souvenir pieces whenever I travel.

16IPC News | acipc.org.auACIPC PRESIDENT’S ABC NEWS INTERVIEWAim for zero COVID-19 infections in healthcare, says A/Prof Stéphane Bouchoucha.ACIPC President Stéphane Bouchoucha has called for greater consistency between health services in mandating N95 masks, amid concerns about the high number of patients catching COVID-19 in Victorian hospitals.In an interview with ABC News, A/Prof Bouchoucha said, “there’s no consistency between health services, and there doesn’t seem to be leadership from the Department of Health.”With one in 10 patients who caught COVID in hospital in a 24-month period dying, the ACIPC President expresses concern about the complacency shown compared to golden staph or tuberculosis infections. “Any hospital acquired infection is concerning,” he told ABC News. “There isn’t an acceptable number...with golden staph, we aim for zero. Why don’t we do that with COVID?”TO READ THE FULL ABC NEWS ARTICLE CLICK HEREREAD ACIPC’S POSITION STATEMENT CURRENT AND CONTINUING IMPACT OF COVID-19 HERE CLICK HERE16IPC News | acipc.org.au

GAMA & ACIPC IPC TOUR 2024 HIGHLIGHTSADELAIDEMELBOURNE17May 2024

GAMA & ACIPC IPC TOUR 2024 HIGHLIGHTSBRISBANE18IPC News | acipc.org.au

PERTH19May 2024

GAMA & ACIPC IPC TOUR 2024 HIGHLIGHTSSYDNEY20IPC News | acipc.org.au

21May 2024Introducing our latest IPC campaign,‘Stay a Step Ahead’ of winter infectionsDon't let hidden pathogens catch you off guard this winter! Dive into our comprehensive Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Winter campaign. It is designed to help you manage threats lurking on surfaces, patient and resident hands, and tackle the challenges of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).Uncover Hidden Pathogens: Download FREE IPC winter resources – including educational posters, crossword puzzles, Zoom backgrounds & screensavers!Enter our IPC Hot Tips Competition: Share your best IPC strategies and tips for a chance to WIN! Whether it's a clever technique to increase compliance of surface decontamination or a unique approach to promoting hand hygiene, your insight could make you a winner!Educational Webinar: Register for the ‘Stay a Step Ahead’ educational webinar.Scan the QR code to be part of the actionScan to take part in the campaign and find out moreDRAFTPAID ADVERT

22IPC News | acipc.org.auWORLD HAND HYGIENE DAY 5 MAY2024World Hand Hygiene Day was celebrated on 5 May 2024. This year’s theme was:Promoting knowledge and capacity building of health and care workers through innovative and impactful training and education, on infection prevention and control, including hand hygiene. ACIPC developed a suite of resources for use in the workplace or community, including:• A3 posters for your noticeboard tailored to a variety of dierent healthcare specialties• Puzzles and games to download• An email signature banner – free for you to download and use in your professional communication Thanks to everyone who entered our competition to win a copy of Healthcare-Associated Infections in Australia signed by Professor Ramon Shaban. Calamvale Parklands were the lucky winners, and as you can see below, it was all hands on deck for the celebrations, with sta and residents all joining in the fun!We hope you enjoy the photos from some of our other competition entrants too.Our Hand Hygiene resources are still available on our website by clicking on the link here (and yes, we’ve put up the crossword puzzle answers!):

23May 2024WORLD HAND HYGIENE DAY 2024 5 MAY2024CALAMVALE PARKLANDS, QLD

24IPC News | acipc.org.auWORLD HAND HYGIENE DAY 2024 GORDON LODGE, WAST VINCENTS, SYDNEY, NSW ST VINCENTS HEATHCOTE, NSW

25May 2024WORLD HAND HYGIENE DAY 2024 NATIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL, HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDSST VINCENTS HEATHCOTE, NSWWORRABINDA MULTIPURPOSE HEALTH SERVICE, QLD

26IPC News | acipc.org.auThis month ACIPC IPC Consultant Carrie Spinks explores the Japanese Encephalitis virus (JEV).JEV is a mosquito-borne flavivirus, it belongs to the same genus as dengue and yellow fever. Japanese encephalitis (JE) is caused by the JEV. The first documented case was in 1871 in Japan (where it gets its name); Australia’s first documented case was in 1995.In Australia mainland, Japanese encephalitis (JE) remains rare, however is endemic in Asia and Torres Strait region. Australia only had 15 cases notified between 2012 and 2021 – all but one acquired overseas. In 2022 parts of Australia experienced a JE outbreak which was declared by the Australian Government as a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance. A One Health approach was taken collaborating health, agriculture, water and environment– government state and territory counterparts coordinated responses.TRANSMISSIONJEV is spread through mosquito bites. JE life cycle is commonly between water birds and mosquitoes, however if wild pigs or piggeries are within infected mosquito locations, transmission can also occur to pigs. Horses can also be infected.Transmission does not occur between humans or between mammals (pigs/horses) and water birds to humans, its also not spread by consuming infected animals. Humans and horses are considered dead end hosts; while pigs and wild birds are deemed amplifying hosts, able to produce sucient viral blood levels, to infect mosquitoes.BUG OF THE MONTH JAPANESE ENCEPHALITIS

27May 2024HUMAN HEALTH – SYMPTOMSInfections are usually asymptomatic, and severe illness and death are rare. Symptoms can include sudden onset of fever and headache. The small proportion of people who experience severe illness (less than 1%) have symptoms of neck stiness, altered consciousness, focal neurological signs, convulsions, paralysis, and death – indications of encephalitis and meningitis. Symptoms usually present 5-15 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito.JEV TESTINGSigns and symptoms can guide testing as well as enquiry into recent travel or visits to areas of JEV exposure. Blood tests and lumbar puncture are used to test for JEV.Laboratory diagnosis of JE is obtained by testing serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to detect virus specific IgM antibodies. JE virus IgM antibodies are usually detectable 3 to 8 days after illness onset and persist generally for 30 - 90 days.

PROTECTION AGAINST JEVTwo ways to best protect oneself from JEV: avoid being bitten by infected mosquitoes and vaccination. Protection from mosquito bites minimises exposure to JEV and other mosquito borne viruses. This includes:• Using insect repellent approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) on all exposed skin.• Wear long loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing when outdoors• Ensure accommodation (including tents) is properly fitted with mosquito netting and/or screens.• Cover all doors, windows, vents and openings with insect proof screens • Remove water holding containers where mosquitoes may breed• Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units (indoors) and mosquito coils (outdoors) to repeal mosquitos from the areaVACCINATION: High risk groups for the vaccination include:People who work, reside near or visit piggeries including:• Farm workers and their families, transport workers, veterinarians and others involved in care of pigs.• Pork abattoir or rendering plantsPeople who work directly with mosquito through:• Surveillance (field or lab based) or control and management • Indirectly through management of vertebrate mosquito-borne disease surveillance systems (e.g. sentinel animals) such as: > Environmental health ocers/workers > Entomologists.• Diagnostic and research lab workers at risk of exposure and transmission through working with JEV cultures or mosquitoesAvailable vaccines:• Imojev (Sanofi Pasteur) is a single dose, live attenuated virus vaccine (not for pregnant women or those immunocompromised) • JEspect (Seqirus) is a two dose (inactivated) vaccine which requires a 28-day interval between dosesBUG OF THE MONTH JAPANESE ENCEPHALITISResources:Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) resourceshttps://www.health.gov.au/resources/collections/japanese-encephalitis-jev-resourcesReferences:Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. (2023). Japanese encephalitis virus. Accessed 2024 Mar 13: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/pests-diseases-weeds/animal/japanese-encephalitisAustralian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023). Japanese encephalitis. Accessed 2024 Mar 13: https://www.health.gov.au/diseases/japanese-encephalitisCentre for Disease control and Prevention. (2023). Japanese Encephalitis Virus. Accessed 2024 Mar 13: https://www.cdc.gov/japaneseencephalitis/index.htmlHealth Direct. (2023). Japanese encephalitis. Accessed 2024 Mar 13: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/japanese-encephalitis28IPC News | acipc.org.au

INTERNATIONAL NURSES’ DAY International Nurses’ Day is celebrated every May 12 on the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth, and ACIPC joined in by recognizing nurses for the vital work they do every day.This year’s theme was:Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care.According to the International Council of Nurses, despite being the backbone of health care, nursing often faces financial constraints and societal undervaluation. IND 2024 aimed to reshape perceptions, demonstrating how strategic investment in nursing can bring considerable economic and societal benefits.The International Council of Nurses held a webinar chaired by ICN President Pamela Cipriano, launching their 2024 IND publication “Our Nurses, Our Future: The Economic Power of Care.’YOU CAN VIEW THE WEBINAR RECORDING HERE29May 2024

30IPC News | acipc.org.auCONGRATULATIONS DURGACongratulations to Bene Aged Care Clinical Nurse Durga Pant (pictured with ACIPC Board Director Catherine McGovern, Manager Governance, Strategy and Clinical Development at Bene Aged Care).Durga recently completed the Foundations of IPC Course and is the IPC Lead at Bene St.Clair in South Australia.Well done Durga – great achievementIPAC CANADA 2024 NATIONAL CONFERENCEJoin IPAC Canada at their annual conference which attracts infection prevention and control professionals of all backgrounds, including nurses, physicians, epidemiologists, environmental services managers, medical laboratory technologists, dental professionals, pre-hospital/emergency services professionals, and many other healthcare sectors across the spectrum of care. For more information about the program, and to register, click the link here.

31May 2024FluTracking is a surveillance system that uses online volunteer surveys to monitor influenza and COVID-19.FLUTRACKING AUSTRALIA & NZIt has been running for 17 yeas in Australia and 5 years in New Zealand, and currently has over 110,000 participants per week contributing data, which contributes to scientific research and helps track COVID-19 and influenza in communities.How does it work?After registering, volunteers are sent a weekly online survey to complete. The survey takes about 30 seconds.The FluTracking program aims to develop a system that can provide:• Community level influenza-like and COVID-like illness surveillance• Consistent surveillance of influenza and COVID-19 activity across all jurisdictions and over time; and• Year-to-year comparison of the timing, attack rates, and seriousness of COVID-19 and influenza in the community.TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM, OR TO BECOME A FLUTRACKER, CLICK HERE

On 14 May, the Australian Federal Treasurer delivered the 2024-25 Budget. Here are some of the highlights for healthcare.MedicareIn prior Budgets, 58 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics were established. This Budget expands on that by introducing an additional 29 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, allocating $227 million to ensure broader accessibility for Australians across various locations, enabling them to access urgent care services promptly, with full bulk billing, and without enduring lengthy waits in crowded hospital emergency departments.Additionally, the Budget allocates $882.2 million for bulk billing, aiming to encourage medical practitioners to oer older Australians comprehensive medical assistance.HospitalsMore funding will be provided to state public hospitals from 2025-2030, which will increase the Commonwealth contribution to the cost of care to 45 per cent over the next 10 years (it has been around 40 per cent until now).FEDERAL BUDGET 2024 – WHAT’S IN IT FOR HEALTHCARE?32IPC News | acipc.org.au

Mental HealthThe Government has committed $361 million over the next four years to expand the range of free mental health services and plan to:• Launch a new national early intervention service so people can get support before their distress escalates to needing higher intensity services or crisis care.• Provide free mental health services through a network of 61 walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres staed by psychiatrists, psychologists and GPs on call.• Fund Primary Health Networks in partnership with GPs to recruit mental health nurses and other allied health professionals. They will deliver free care coordination and assistance to patients with complex needs, bridging the gap between GP and specialist appointments.Aged Care• The Government is committed to delivering the new rights-based Aged Care Act. Although dates have yet to be confirmed, it’s expected to commence in 2025.• Funding of $531.4 million has been allocated to releasing an extra 24,100 Home Care Packages in 2024-25.• The Government has pledged $110.9 million over four years to increase the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s regulatory capabilities.• Technology systems upgrade funding of $1.2 billion has been announced, to support the introduction of the new Aged Care Act and IT systems.• The My Aged Care Contact Centre is to receive $37 million to lower waiting times.• Funding of $88.4 million has been allocated to attract and retain the aged care workforce.• The Fair Work Commission decision to increase the award wage for direct and indirect aged care workers will be funded by the Government once the final determination is made.Other• The Government is working to finalise the Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement to deliver cheaper medicines, improve patient health outcomes and support a strong community pharmacy sector, and has allocated an additional $3 billion in funding to this.• The Government plans to make Australia a destination for clinical trials, allocating $18.8 million to attract more medical research and give Australians earlier access to life-changing medicines.• An additional $1.4 billion over 13 years has been committed to the Medical Research Future Fund. This includes an extra $411.6 million for low-survival rate cancers and to reduce health inequality. 33May 2024TAKE A LOOK AT BUDGET 2024-25 BY CLICKING HERE

RECENTLY CREDENTIALLED &RE-CREDENTIALLED MEMBERSThe board of directors would like to congratulate the following memberswho has received credentialling this month:Expert Credentialling – Nicola IslesExpert-Recredentialling – Philip RussoFor information on how you can become credentialled, visit the ACIPC website:https://www.acipc.org.au/credentialling/34IPC News | acipc.org.au

ACIPC 2024/25 MEMBERSHIP RENEWALACIPC membership is a valuable resource for anyone interested ininfection prevention and control. Membership gives you access tothe latest IPC news, research, and evidence-based practice, as wellas opportunities to share resources and network with your peers.Membership benefits include:• Opportunity to become a Credentialled IPC professional• A subscription to the College’s highly regarded journal, Infection, Disease & Health• Access to the members-only email discussion forum, Infexion Connexion• Discounted rates on educational courses• Discounted registration to the ACIPC Conference in Melbourne• Access to member-only resources and webinars• Voting rights and eligibility to hold oce• Opportunities to connect with your peers within infection prevention and control The next twelve months will see the College develop and furtherinvest in supporting our members and IPC more broadly. The Collegeappreciates the ongoing support of our members.Emails will be sent out in June for membership renewal for 2024/2025We look forward to continuing to support our members over the next 12 months.35May 2024CHECK YOUR DETAILS ARE CORRECT HERE

36IPC News | acipc.org.auINFECTION CONTROL MATTERS PODCASTReflections on the first morning at ECCMID 2024In our first episode from ECCMID Global 2024, Martin and Brett reflect on the session on design of the healthcare environment sessions from Profs Hilary Humphries and Cath Noakes and a flash poster session featuring VRE Reservoirs in the environment and a tremendous piece of Burkolderia sleuthing from the UKHSAECCMID 2024 – The year in infection controlIn this podcast, Brett and Martin reflect on the “Infection Control Papers of the Year” presented at ECCMID (AKA ESCMID Global) 2024.Here are a selection of some of the papers mentioned:• Decolonization in Nursing Homes to Prevent Infection and Hospitalization https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37815935/• Reducing Hospitalizations and Multidrug-Resistant Organisms vi a Regional Decolonization in Hospitals and Nursing Homes https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38557703/• Prevention of non-ventilator-associated hospital-acquired pneumonia in Switzerland: a type 2 hybrid eectiveness-implementation trial https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36893785/• Skin Antisepsis before Surgical Fixation of Extremity Fractures https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2307679TO LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD CLICK HERE• Trial of Vancomycin and Cefazolin as Surgical Prophylaxis in Arthroplasty https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2301401• Investigation of individual nurses’ relative hand hygiene performance using an anonymous automated electronic hand hygiene monitoring system and a nursing assignment schedule https://www.ajicjournal.org/article/S0196-6553(22)00468-0/abstract• Environmental cleaning to prevent hospital-acquired infections on non-intensive care units: a pragmatic, single-centre, cluster randomized controlled, crossover trial comparing soap-based, disinfection and probiotic cleaning https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37089619/

37May 2024Discussing the new WHO infectious respiratory particies paper at ECCMIDD (with Prof Cath Noakes)In this episode, Brett, Martin and Phil mull over the newly published WHO discussion document on respiratory particles and Martin catches up with Prof Cath Noakes from the School of Engineering in Leeds, UK to get her take on it.You can download the document we are discussing here:https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/global-technical-consultation-report-on-proposed-terminology-for-pathogens-that-transmit-through-the-airReflection on Day 2 of ESCMID Global 2024In this episode, Phil, Brett and Martin dicuss more sessions from ESCMID Global (Barcelona, 2024). We talk about sessions on cleaning the occupied bed space, SSI prevention and the diculty of designing and executing good studies in IPC. We were particularly interested in papers from Italy on the use of probiotics in IPC and some papers from Prof Cassini’s group are highlighted below.• Calabro GE, Caselli E, Rognoni C, Laurenti P, Moscato U, ML DIP, et al. [Health Technology Assessment of the introduction of the Probiotic Cleaning Hygiene System (PCHS) in the Italian healthcare setting: update]. J Prev Med Hyg. 2023;64:E1-E35. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37881619• D’Accolti M, Soritti I, Bini F, Mazziga E, Cason C, Comar M, et al. Shaping the subway microbiome through probiotic-based sanitation during the COVID-19 emergency: a pre-post case-control study. Microbiome. 2023;11:64. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/36991513• D’Accolti M, Soritti I, Bini F, Mazziga E, Mazzacane S, Caselli E. Pathogen Control in the Built Environment: A Probiotic-Based System as a Remedy for the Spread of Antibiotic Resistance. Microorganisms. 2022;10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35208679• Caselli E, Purificato I. Could we fight healthcare-associated infections and antimicrobial resistance with probiotic-based sanitation? Commentary. Ann Ist Super Sanita. 2020;56:263-6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32959791|• Caselli E, D’Accolti M, Vandini A, Lanzoni L, Camerada MT, Coccagna M, et al. Impact of a Probiotic-Based Cleaning Intervention on the Microbiota Ecosystem of the Hospital Surfaces: Focus on the Resistome Remodulation. PLoS One. 2016;11:e0148857. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26886448Reflections on Day 3 at ESCMID Global 2024It was day 3 at ESCMID Global 2024 and Phil, Brett and Martin mull over the day. Amongst the items we discuss are:• What does endogenous really mean?• AI in the IPC space - friend or foe?• Fungal outbreaks - epidemiological challenges and tracing the source• Automated bloodstream infection surveillance• The Euro PPS survey results - data in action (or inaction)Subsequent to the podcast recording the ECDC PPS results have been published and can be found here:https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/healthcare-associated--infections-antimicrobial-use-point-prevalence-survey-2016-2017.pdf

38IPC News | acipc.org.auLatest articles from Infection, Disease & HealthAttitudes to cross infection, nebulizer hygiene and antimicrobial resistance in people with cystic fibrosis: Results of an international survey Beverley C. Millar, Jacqueline C. Rendall, John E. Moore https://www.idhjournal.com.au/article/S2468-0451(24)00024-5/fulltextDaily COVID-19 employee attestations at a large quaternary hospital in Melbourne, Australia – Limitations and lessons learnt Vivian K.Y. Leung, Elizabeth Orr, Caroline Marshall https://www.idhjournal.com.au/article/S2468-0451(24)00025-7/fulltextKnowledge and attitudes of healthcare workers about influenza vaccination Oussama Kaddour, Asma Ben Mabrouk, Sondess Arfa, Najoua Lassoued, Olfa Berriche, Jihene Chelli https://www.idhjournal.com.au/article/S2468-0451(24)00027-0/fulltextKey lessons from the establishment of a nurse-led infection prevention and control program for COVID-19 in an Australian hotel quarantine and isolation service J. Petty,A. Peacock-Smith,E. Dawson,...A. Ganesh,B. McEntee,R. Einboden https://www.idhjournal.com.au/article/S2468-0451(24)00021-X/fulltextN-95/P2 respirator compliance with fit testing recommendations and respirator satisfaction amongst hospital sta Liam Hackett, Melanie (Meilun) Zhang, Matthew Casey, Emogene Aldridge, Patrick J. Owen, Paul Buntine https://www.idhjournal.com.au/article/S2468-0451(24)00023-3/fulltextOral care practices and hospital-acquired pneumonia prevention: A national survey of Australian nurses Peta Ellen Tehan, Katrina Browne, Georgia Matterson, Nicole White, Rhonda Wilson, Brett G. Mitchell https://www.idhjournal.com.au/article/S2468-0451(24)00028-2/fulltextFrom basic research to clinical practice: The impact of laminar airflow filters on surgical site infection in vascular surgery Albert González-Sagredo, Albert Castellà Durall, Thiago Carnaval, Sebastián Videla, Ramon Vila, Elena Iborra https://www.idhjournal.com.au/article/S2468-0451(24)00026-9/fulltext

39May 2024Selected publications of interest Comparison of an algorithm, and coding data, with traditional surveillance to identify surgical site infections in Australia: a retrospective multi-centred cohort study - Journal of Hospital Infection https://www.journalofhospitalinfection.com/article/S0195-6701(24)00113-0/fulltextCARAlert Annual Report: 2023 https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/caralert-annual-report-2023Rethinking Airborne Pathogens: WHO Proposes New Terminology for Disease Spread https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/rethinking-airborne-pathogens-who-proposes-new-terminology-disease-spreadUnderstanding what leaders can do to facilitate healthcare workers’ feeling valued: improving our knowledge of the strongest burnout mitigator https://bmjleader.bmj.com/content/early/2024/04/21/leader-2023-000921knowledge of the strongest burnout mitigatorAssisting the infection preventionist: Use of artificial intelligence for health care–associated infection surveillance https://www.ajicjournal.org/article/S0196-6553(24)00077-4/abstractAutomated trac monitoring of neurosurgical operating room https://www.ajicjournal.org/article/S0196-6553(24)00055-5/abstractImpacts of lid closure during toilet flushing and of toilet bowl cleaning on viral contamination of surfaces in United States restrooms https://www.ajicjournal.org/article/S0196-6553(23)00820-9/fulltext

Scan to order and receive an exclusive 25% discount!** 25% discount offer exclusivelyfor ACIPC members. ACIPC members will receive the 25% discount code via email.The first Australian text to address the challenges posed by infectious diseases and healthcare-associated infections for all members of the multidisciplinary healthcare team.Drawing on the expertise of a wide author team, and based on current research, this important and comprehensive text provides a clear pathway for the reader to increase their knowledge and understanding of IPC. The text is designed for both students and practising clinicians, and is presented in two sections - Principles and Practice - for ease of use. With IPC principles and guidelines now embedded into all health-related curricula, and mandated by standards and guidelines across all areas of healthcare, this is a book no health professional should miss.1st Edition By Ramon Z. Shaban, Brett G. Mitchell, Philip L. Russo & Deborough Macbeth ISBN 9780729543644Healthcare-Associated Infections in AustraliaPrinciples and Practice of Infection Prevention and ControlEndorsed byAUSTRALASIANSOCIETY INFECTIOUSDISEASESFORElsevier Australia Customer Service: 1800 263 951 / Email: Customerserviceau@elsevier.com* Special 25% discount and free delivery offer available at elsevierhealth.com.aufor all ACIPC members. ACIPCmembers will receive the 25% discount codeseparately via email from ACIPC. Use promo code at checkout stage for25%off the RRP of ISBN 9780729543644. Offer ends 31/12/2024. Valid for deliveryto Australia and New Zealandonly.Prices are subject to change without notice.PAID ADVERT

41May 2024 Scan to order and receive an exclusive 25% discount!** 25% discount offer exclusivelyfor ACIPC members. ACIPC members will receive the 25% discount code via email.The first Australian text to address the challenges posed by infectious diseases and healthcare-associated infections for all members of the multidisciplinary healthcare team.Drawing on the expertise of a wide author team, and based on current research, this important and comprehensive text provides a clear pathway for the reader to increase their knowledge and understanding of IPC. The text is designed for both students and practising clinicians, and is presented in two sections - Principles and Practice - for ease of use. With IPC principles and guidelines now embedded into all health-related curricula, and mandated by standards and guidelines across all areas of healthcare, this is a book no health professional should miss.1st Edition By Ramon Z. Shaban, Brett G. Mitchell, Philip L. Russo & Deborough Macbeth ISBN 9780729543644Healthcare-Associated Infections in AustraliaPrinciples and Practice of Infection Prevention and ControlEndorsed byAUSTRALASIANSOCIETY INFECTIOUSDISEASESFORElsevier Australia Customer Service: 1800 263 951 / Email: Customerserviceau@elsevier.com* Special 25% discount and free delivery offer available at elsevierhealth.com.aufor all ACIPC members. ACIPCmembers will receive the 25% discount codeseparately via email from ACIPC. Use promo code at checkout stage for25%off the RRP of ISBN 9780729543644. Offer ends 31/12/2024. Valid for deliveryto Australia and New Zealandonly.Prices are subject to change without notice.

Level 6 152 Macquarie StHobart TAS 7000+61 (3) 6281 9239oce@acipc.org.auwww.acipc.org.auABN 61 154 341 036FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA