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Infection control saves lives, lowers costs Across the U.S., some 77,000 patients die each year from infections originating in hospitals.   They’re the 11th leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.   To demonstrate the importance of infection prevention and control in all health care settings, MUSC infection control practitioners, working closely with epidemiologist Bruce Ribner, M.D., are celebrating National Infection Control Week, Oct. 17 through 23.   Infections originating in hospitals—called nosocomial infections—account for increases in annual health care costs of more than $4.5 billion and antibiotic resistant bacteria are costing the United States more than $100 million per year in additional health care costs.    One third of these infections are preventable.   “The simplest, and probably the most obvious, preventive practice is handwashing,” said infection control practitioner Betty Webster. “Health care professionals and consumers alike can ensure their own wellness by taking specific steps to prevent the spread of infectious disease. The everyday germs that are present on our hands can cause illnesses such as diarrhea, colds and other more serious diseases, such as hepatitis A and E-coli infection.”   According to the Association for Professionals in Infection Control (APIC) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, handwashing is one of the most important means of preventing the spread of infection.    One highly preventable infectious disease, influenza, costs $5 billion in medical expenses and $12 billion in lost productivity each year. Vaccinations against influenza are being offered at MUSC during the next few months.    Another, tuberculosis, kills more people worldwide than any other infectious disease. The MUSC Medical Center is serious about preventing the spread of tuberculosis and has an active screening program for all employees.   At the MUSC Medical Center, four infection control practitioners (ICP) work closely with Ribner, from the Division of Infectious Diseases. The ICPs are all active members of APIC. The association represents 12,000 infection control professionals throughout the world and promotes wellness and prevents illness and infection by advancing health care epidemiology through education, collaboration, research, practice, and credentialing.   National Infection Control Week is being recognized with a banner at the Administration Building and with posters placed throughout the units and departments. Please join the Infection Control Department in recognizing the importance of taking personal responsibility for controlling infections!