Introducing the First Issue of The CSiM Exchange
Advancing Stewardship, Quality, and Collaboration in Rural Health.
Our new quarterly newsletter brings together key updates in stewardship, infectious diseases, and rural health. Each edition highlights practical tools, emerging clinical topics, and resources designed to support the clinicians and partners who care for rural communities.
In this first issue, you’ll find an update on H5N5 in Washington State, newly released CSiM stewardship tools—including the updated CSiM Antibiotic Pocket Guide—and announcements for Antibiotic Awareness Week.
The CSiM Exchange is open to anyone interested in rural health—current CSiM partners, past participants, and new partners alike. We look forward to sharing insights and resources that strengthen connections and support high-quality care in stewardship, infectious diseases, and beyond.
Bugs and Drugs – H5N5 found in WA State
H5N5 Avian Influenza Update: First Human Case Confirmed in Washington State
H5N5 avian influenza has been confirmed in Washington State, marking the first known human infection with this strain. If you missed the CSiM faculty update at TASP, you can watch the recording below.
- TASP update on H5N5 – Nov. 18th, 2025
- H5N5 Avian influenza confirmed in Grays Harbor County resident
- Washington resident is infected with a different type of bird flu
The Stewards Toolkit
The third edition of the CSiM Antibiotic Pocket Guide is now live.
This updated version reflects current guidance and is available on our website—please share it widely with colleagues and partners.
Participating CSiM hospitals can expect printed copies to arrive in January.
CSiM’s new nursing curriculum is now live!
We’re pleased to share two nursing-focused stewardship resources designed to provide practical, evidence-based support that strengthens antibiotic decision-making and promotes safer, more effective patient care across clinical settings. (Must be logged into CSiM website to access).
Antibiotic Awareness Week Nov. 18 – 24, 2025
Antibiotic Awareness Week is here, and it’s a important reminder of the role every clinician plays in protecting the effectiveness of the medications we rely on most. This week shines a light on the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance and highlights the practical steps hospitals and care teams can take to ensure antibiotics are used wisely and safely. Across rural communities, where resources are stretched and care teams manage a wide range of patient needs, stewardship efforts are especially vital.
Three CSiM partner hospitals— Dayton, Forks, and Skyline—are highlighted by the Washington State Department of Health for their leadership in antimicrobial stewardship. Their work demonstrates practical, high-impact AMS strategies in rural settings.
Explore their featured projects and learn more about their contributions here.