Greetings from the Board of IFIC and welcome to the IFIC Newsletter!
Opinion from Your Chair: Let’s talk vaccinations!
Vaccinations are one of the most effective public health tools in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. By stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens, vaccines protect individuals from serious illness, hospitalization, and even death. In addition to safeguarding those who receive them, widespread vaccination programs help establish herd immunity, in other words to reduce the overall transmission of diseases within communities. Vaccines have been crucial in the fight against diseases like polio, measles, and influenza, and continue to play a key role in controlling emerging threats, such as COVID-19. Through science and global collaboration, vaccinations have saved millions of lives and remain essential in maintaining public health.
Here in North America, many are ready for fall immunization programs offered in health settings such as hospitals and long-term care homes. These seasonal campaigns often include influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal, and RSV. However, when vaccination rates decline – whether due to misinformation, lack of access, or vaccine hesitancy, the immunity within that community weakens, and thus creating opportunities for outbreaks to rapidly spread. Measles for example has made a comeback in many countries, including Canada, United States, and Mexico who may loose their elimination status. Canada for example has been measles-free status for nearly 30 years. Measle outbreaks have surged globally in 2025, with several regions facing serious public health challenges due to declining vaccination rates and increased transmission.
The role of Infection Control Professionals (ICPs) in promoting vaccination is both dynamic and deeply impactful. Their mission goes far beyond simply advocating for immunization—it centers on protecting entire communities from the threat of preventable diseases. ICPs contribute across a wide spectrum of responsibilities and activities such as:
�� Education and Advocacy: Informing staff, patients, and the public about vaccine safety and efficacy.
�� Surveillance and Data Analysis: Monitoring immunization rates and identifying gaps or emerging risks.
�� Outbreak Response: Coordinating swift action to contain and prevent disease spread.
�� Community Engagement: Building trust through outreach and culturally sensitive communication.
�� Policy Development and Implementation: Shaping guidelines that support vaccination efforts.
�� Program Participation: Overseeing immunization initiatives for healthcare workers and patient populations.
By communicating with confidence and compassion, ICPs have the power to shift perceptions—especially among those who are hesitant or misinformed. Their influence transcends clinical boundaries; it touches cultural norms, ethical responsibilities, and the shared human commitment to public health.
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Technical Brief: WHO 2025 Inclusion of antimicrobial resistance in training programmes for community health workers