Connecticut epidemiologist encourages everyday actions to fight disease spread

Connecticut, US, 21st July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, As new waves of flu, RSV, and other infectious diseases continue to stress healthcare systems across the U.S., Dr. David Banach, a leading infectious disease physician and hospital epidemiologist at a major academic hospital in the state, is speaking out.

Banach, who played a key advisory role in Connecticut’s COVID-19 response, says the time to act on infection prevention is now — and that action doesn’t require waiting on government or hospitals.

“Preparedness isn’t just about having masks or vaccines,” said Dr. Banach. “It’s about having systems, data, and trust — but it also starts with personal decisions, like staying home when sick, getting vaccinated, and washing your hands.”

According to the CDC, each year in the U.S.:

• Over 1.7 million healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) occur

• 99,000 deaths result from these infections

• 5–10% of hospitalized patients acquire an infection during their stay

Banach says much of this can be prevented. “Simple practices — even the ones we all learned during COVID — still matter. Things like wearing a mask when you’re symptomatic or avoiding crowded places when flu is surging. They work.”

He’s especially concerned about rising antibiotic resistance, which the WHO calls one of the biggest threats to global health. “When antibiotics stop working, even a basic infection can turn serious,” he said. “Stewardship isn’t just a hospital job. It starts with not demanding antibiotics for every cold.”

Banach also focuses on vulnerable populations, including the homeless. As a volunteer physician at Hartford’s South Park Inn shelter, he sees the consequences of healthcare gaps firsthand.

“Everyone deserves basic care,” he said. “Volunteering keeps me grounded. It reminds me why I went into medicine.”

He encourages others to help however they can — not just through volunteering, but by staying informed and modeling good habits.

What You Can Do Today

Dr. Banach offers these practical steps:

• Get vaccinated — against flu, COVID-19, RSV (if eligible), and more

• Stay home when sick — even mild symptoms can spread illness

• Use antibiotics wisely — don’t pressure doctors for them

• Support community health programs — donate or volunteer locally

• Be alert to emerging infections — stay informed from reliable sources

“We can’t prevent every infection, but we can reduce the impact,” Banach said. “It’s not about fear. It’s about responsibility.”

About Dr. David Banach

David Banach is an Associate Professor of Medicine and a Lecturer in Epidemiology. He serves as Head of Infection Prevention at a leading academic hospital and is a past president of the Connecticut Infectious Diseases Society. He has authored over 60 publications focused on infection control, antimicrobial resistance, and public health preparedness.