CHICAGO – The incidence of Clostridium difficile–associated disease was more than three times as high among patients using proton pump inhibitors, compared with those who were not, results from a Japanese study found. “In addition to previous use of anti-microbials, long-term use of proton pump... »

WASHINGTON -- Flu vaccination rates in the United States are up, and more health care professionals are leading by example, Thomas Frieden, MD, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, announced at a press conference previewing this year's flu season. The annual flu vaccine is... »

SAN FRANCISCO – Retirement community staff should prepare themselves for norovirus outbreaks, which can shut down dining halls, damage public relations, and strain residents’ physical and mental health, according to staff members of a Portland, Ore., facility who learned the hard way last... »

ST. CHARLES, MO. – A campaign against dental problems in a nursing facility doesn’t have to be a battle. A new program of oral care shows that when it is personalized and staff are trained and empowered, the result can be residents who smile more and feel better. Philip Sloane, MD, of the... »