Prevention of CVC Infection Iodine Versus Chlorhexidine

Although not generally considered a serious disease, this outbreak demonstrates the far-reaching effects of scabies among a high-risk patient population and the HCWs treating them. We found that HCWs with extensive contact with AIDS patients were at highest risk of developing disease. Transmission among the patients and HCWs was extensive, and the current CDC isolation recommendations were inadequate for hospitalized, extensively infested patients. The effect of the outbreak on staff morale far outweighed its financial impact. Prompt communication by management is essential in minimizing this effect. Based on this outbreak, we feel that links between acuteand nonacute-care hospitals, the clinics they serve, and the local health autiiorities are critical and must be revitalized. Communication among these groups will facilitate the prevention and control of endemic problems that, given the correct circumstances, can become epidemic.