
HAIs are infections people can develop as a result of receiving medical care. HAIs can happen in any healthcare facility, including hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, hemodialysis facilities, and long-term care facilities. A wide variety of bacteria, fungi, viruses, or other, less common pathogens can cause HAIs.
The COVID-19 pandemic has proven challenging nationally for overall healthcare infrastructure. The impact on HAIs showed a national increase in HAI incidence in 2020, based on CDC National Healthcare Safety Network data. These data highlight the need to return to conventional infection prevention and control practices and build resiliency in these programs to prepare for and withstand future pandemics. Additional information is available at CDC HAIs.