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Common infections in nursing homes: a review of current issues and challenges

    Ana Montoya

    University of Michigan, Division of Geriatrics, MI, USA

    &
    Lona Mody

    * Author for correspondence

    University of Michigan, Division of Geriatrics and Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veteran Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, 11-G Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, 2215 Fuller Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA.

    Published Online:https://doi.org/10.2217/ahe.11.80

    Over 1.5 million people live in 16,000 nursing homes in the USA and experience an average of 2 million infections a year. Infections have been associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, rehospitalization, extended hospital stay and substantial healthcare expenses. Emerging infections and antibiotic-resistant organisms in an institutional environment where there is substantial antimicrobial overuse and the population is older, frailer and sicker, create unique challenges for infection control. This review discusses the common infections, challenges, and a framework for a practical infection prevention program.

    Papers of special note have been highlighted as: •• of considerable interest

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