Infection control in cystic fibrosis: evolving perspectives and challenges

Curr Opin Pulm Med. 2022 Nov 1;28(6):571-576. doi: 10.1097/MCP.0000000000000918. Epub 2022 Sep 19.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This article reviews the impact of some of the most recent changes in clinical care management in cystic fibrosis on infection prevention practice and advice for people with cystic fibrosis.

Recent findings: People with cystic fibrosis (CF) consistently highlight infection control as one of their major concerns. Infection prevention guidance and practice has facilitated successful decreases in rates of many transmissible CF pathogens. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic highlighted the clinical significance of respiratory viral infections and has accelerated the implementation of remote monitoring and telemedicine consultations as standard practice in CF. The continued improvement in health of the CF population is being further augmented by the introduction of new therapies, in particular cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulators. Infection prevention will remain pertinent to CF care, but these recent changes in clinical practice will have ongoing implications for infection prevention guidance in CF.

Summary: Recent changes in CF clinical care have implications that will lead to further evolution of infection control practice and advice.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator / genetics
  • Cystic Fibrosis* / drug therapy
  • Cystic Fibrosis* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Infection Control
  • Mutation
  • Pandemics / prevention & control

Substances

  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator