What is the primary role of the CDC in infection control?

The primary role of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) in infection control is to provide guidelines and recommendations. The CDC is instrumental in establishing evidence-based practices that healthcare facilities, public health professionals, and communities can follow to prevent and control infections. This includes formulating detailed guidelines on hand hygiene, sterilization practices, and the management of infectious diseases.

By disseminating these protocols, the CDC aims to reduce infection rates, promote safety in healthcare environments, and ultimately protect the public's health. Their guidelines are crucial for informing healthcare providers about best practices, emerging threats, and effective strategies to improve patient safety and outcomes. Instead of directly developing vaccines or enforcing regulations, the CDC focuses on guiding how infection control should be approached across various settings, thereby influencing policy and practice at both local and national levels.