Why Researchers Choose American Journal of Infection Control for High-Impact Publications
The American Journal of Infection Control stands as a cornerstone in the field of occupational and environmental safety, particularly focusing on infection prevention and control. Established to address critical public health challenges, this Elsevier-published journal has evolved into a vital platform for researchers worldwide. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most innovative and evidence-based studies reach publication, making it a preferred choice for scholars aiming to influence clinical practices and policy in healthcare settings.
With a scope that encompasses epidemiology, microbiology, and environmental factors in infection spread, the journal bridges gaps between laboratory research and real-world applications. Researchers value its commitment to multidisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from nursing, medicine, and public health. The publication's emphasis on practical guidelines and surveillance data helps professionals mitigate risks in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community environments. Over decades, it has contributed landmark studies on hand hygiene, antimicrobial resistance, and outbreak management, shaping global standards.
For academics in occupational safety, publishing in the American Journal of Infection Control offers visibility among key stakeholders, including infection control practitioners and regulatory bodies. The journal's international readership amplifies the reach of findings, fostering collaborations and citations that bolster career progression. Its hybrid open access model provides flexibility, allowing authors to maximize dissemination without compromising quality. As healthcare faces ongoing threats from emerging pathogens, this journal remains essential for advancing knowledge that protects workers and patients alike.
Explore opportunities to contribute your research and connect with the academic community through resources like infection control academic jobs. Whether you're a graduate student or established professor, submitting here can elevate your profile in environmental safety research.
Overview & History
The American Journal of Infection Control, often abbreviated as AJIC, was founded in 1980 by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC). Initially launched to disseminate knowledge on hospital-acquired infections, it quickly expanded to cover broader occupational and environmental safety concerns. Published by Elsevier since its inception, the journal has chronicled the evolution of infection prevention strategies amid changing healthcare landscapes, from the AIDS crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, AJIC serves as a monthly outlet for original research, reviews, and guidelines, maintaining a circulation that reaches thousands of professionals globally. Its historical role in standardizing practices, such as those outlined in CDC collaborations, underscores its enduring impact. Researchers appreciate how the journal adapts to contemporary issues like climate-related disease vectors and workplace biosafety protocols.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The American Journal of Infection Control focuses on the prevention and control of infections in healthcare and community settings, with a strong emphasis on occupational and environmental safety. It welcomes submissions on topics ranging from surveillance methodologies to intervention efficacy, ensuring relevance to diverse audiences.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Infection Prevention | Strategies for reducing healthcare-associated infections through hygiene and protocols. |
| Epidemiology | Studies on disease patterns, outbreak investigations, and risk factors in occupational environments. |
| Microbiology | Research on pathogens, antimicrobial stewardship, and resistance mechanisms. |
| Environmental Safety | Impact of built environments, ventilation, and disinfection on infection control. |
| Public Health Policy | Guidelines and regulatory aspects for safe practices in diverse settings. |
These disciplines highlight the journal's interdisciplinary nature, attracting contributions that inform both clinical and administrative decisions.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 3.0 | Clarivate Journal Citation Reports. |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 3.2 | Reflects sustained influence in the field. |
| CiteScore | 5.8 | Scopus-based metric for broader citation analysis. |
| h-Index | 102 | Indicates high citation productivity. |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | Selective process ensures quality. |
These metrics position the American Journal of Infection Control as a respected venue for impactful work in occupational safety.
Indexing and Abstracting
The journal is widely indexed, enhancing discoverability. It appears in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL, allowing researchers to track citations effectively. Additional databases include Embase and Google Scholar, supporting global access to its content.
Publication Model and Fees
AJIC operates on a hybrid model, offering subscription-based access with optional open access. The article processing charge (APC) for gold open access is approximately $3,200 USD, covering peer review and dissemination. Subscriptions are available through Elsevier, with institutional access common in academic libraries.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Authors submit via the Elsevier Editorial System (EES) online portal. Manuscripts must follow CONSORT or STROBE guidelines where applicable, with a word limit of 3,000 for original articles. Ethical standards require IRB approval and conflict disclosures. Review typically takes 4-6 weeks, emphasizing clarity and novelty.
Editorial Board Highlights
Led by Editor-in-Chief Dr. Patricia M. Griffin, the board comprises experts from institutions like the CDC and Johns Hopkins. Members include specialists in epidemiology and nursing, ensuring diverse perspectives. Their expertise guides the journal's direction toward practical, evidence-based content.
Why Publish in American Journal of Infection Control?
Publishing here offers rapid dissemination, high visibility, and opportunities for citation in policy documents. The journal's focus on actionable research appeals to practitioners, while its metrics support academic promotions. Authors benefit from Elsevier's global network and promotional support.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Publisher | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Journal of Infection Control | 3.0 | Elsevier | Practical infection prevention in healthcare. |
| Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology | 4.2 | Cambridge University Press | Epidemiology and policy in hospital settings. |
| Journal of Hospital Infection | 3.5 | Elsevier | Microbiology and control measures. |
| American Journal of Infection Control | 3.0 | Elsevier | Broad occupational safety applications. |
AJIC distinguishes itself through its emphasis on environmental and occupational aspects, complementing peers in specialized niches.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with current calls, such as antimicrobial resistance themes. Use clear visuals and adhere to formatting. Engage with recent issues for context, and consider co-authoring with practitioners for practical insights. Pre-submission inquiries can clarify fit.
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