[Experiences with outbreaks of nosocomial infections]

Ten years after the publication of the recommendation: "Outbreak management and structural proceedings in case of cumulative occurrence of nosocomial infections" of the federal commission of hospital hygiene, these recommendations are now being re-evaluated. To date, the recommendations have proven valid and have maintained their significance for an effective management. However, besides new hygienic-microbiological methods and an increased sensitivity of the perception of nosocomial outbreaks by the public, by politicians and by the press, it is necessary to consider new issues in this field. Outbreaks are tragic events placing an extraordinary burden on all persons involved, which can have significant consequences. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure prompt outbreak management by experienced professionals who must combine a systematic on-site inspection, hygienic-microbiological investigation and typing methods used with epidemiological approaches. To assure these requirements, the support of independent reference centres such as universal hygiene institutes should be guaranteed. Politicians should be involved only after a scientific evaluation of the details of the outbreak has been made. A national documentation centre, e.g. at the Robert Koch Institute, should be established, thereby making experiences with outbreaks widely available.