Ever wonder what’s lurking in hospital sink drains? A recent study found that regular cleaning with detergents isn’t enough to fully eliminate bacteria—some of which can cause serious harm. The research, published in Frontiers, revealed that hospital sink drains can harbor antibiotic-resistant pathogens and may serve as a source of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). For senior living communities, this underscores the need to re-evaluate cleaning protocols and infection prevention strategies.

Why is this so important? Another study, this one from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), found that Campylobacter strains are becoming highly resistant to fluoroquinolones like ciprofloxacin. In their Joint EFSA-ECDC report, Dr. Therese Westrell, principal expert on food- and water-borne diseases at the ECDC, noted that these medications may also be ineffective against some strains of Salmonella. That’s a warning worth paying attention to.

But there’s good news: education and innovation are making a difference. The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) offers a podcast series called 5 Second Rule. Episode #67, titled “Global Infection Control: Strategies, Challenges and the Future of Healthcare,” explores the global landscape of infection prevention. From antimicrobial stewardship to the lasting impact of COVID-19 and emerging tools like AI and diagnostic stewardship, it’s a timely look at what’s working—and what still needs work.

This might be the perfect moment to revisit your environmental protocols. Are they doing enough to prevent the spread of infection? Sink drains might seem harmless, but they can become breeding grounds for dangerous microbes. Bottom line? Forget the five-second rule—and definitely stay clear of those drains!

Stay well and stay informed!