In January, the 2025 SHEA Board of Trustees met in person at SHEA headquarters in Arlington, VA. We took stock of SHEA's achievements this year and greenlit SHEA committees’ workplans for 2025. These plans showcase the extensive array of initiatives led by our dedicated and visionary volunteers who drive progress within these SHEA entities. Even if you're unable to volunteer directly, we urge all members to participate in SHEA events aligned with your interests, engage in discussions on MySHEA, and connect with us via social media.
In addition, we also discussed potential opportunities and challenges related to US public policy. SHEA works closely with US health agencies and looks forward to continuing once the pause in communication lifts. Until then, we are working with our partners to monitor developments and we are preparing for SHEA’s virtual Hill visits in March. We will provide information in the SHEA Policy Update as it becomes available and are keeping close tabs on the situation. I would encourage members to keep their eyes on MySHEA, where we are sharing information behind the member firewall and providing opportunities to members to comment within the confines of this online platform.
The SHEA Board is committed to strategically addressing current and future needs relevant to healthcare epidemiology, infection prevention, and stewardship. We are on the cusp of publishing several key SHEA documents in 2025, two multi-society guidance documents, one on sterilization and high-level disinfection and one on infection prevention in nursing homes; and a position paper on staffing and resource needs for an effective infection prevention and control (IPC) program. Stay tuned for these documents to be published in ICHE!
Have you made your plans for SHEA Spring 2025? This conference annually serves as a catalyst for networking, learning, and collaboration. Delve into research, the latest in infection prevention, and emerging trends in healthcare epidemiology and stewardship to combat infectious diseases and enhance patient outcomes. Don't miss your chance to connect April 27-30, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. As an extra bonus, attendees get discounted tickets for late entrance to Disney World.
Finally, if you haven’t renewed your SHEA membership, please consider doing this soon to avoid losing access to SHEA benefits, networking opportunities, and educational resources. If you have any issues renewing, email info@shea-online.org.