Outbreak Investigations of Nosocomial Infections

Outbreak investigations of nosocomial infections are crucial due to the significant impact they can have on public health and the economy. Nosocomial infections, acquired in hospitals or other healthcare facilities, are a leading cause of illness and mortality. Surveillance, epidemiology, diagnosis, and prevention are essential components for managing and controlling these infections. The term ‘nosocomial’ is used to describe any disease developed by a patient under hospital care, specifically an infection acquired during a hospital stay occurring 48 hours after admission. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are those resulting from extended hospital stays and are a major risk factor for severe health issues that can lead to death. Approximately 75% of the burden of these infections is found in developing countries. Extensive studies in the USA and Europe have shown that HAI incidence density ranges from 13.0 to 20.3 episodes per thousand patient-days.

As these infections occur during hospital stays, they can lead to extended stays, disability, and financial burdens. Often, outbreaks are a result of failures in infection control practices or the presence of contaminated equipment or medications.

Given the complex nature of nosocomial infections and their significant impact on public health and the economy, we have launched this Research Topic. This article collection aims to include a series of high-quality studies that cover various aspects of HAI outbreak investigations, including surveillance, epidemiology, diagnosis, and prevention. Authors are invited to submit original research articles, clinical studies, and review articles in these key areas.