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Risk factors for colonization with vancomycin-resistant enterococci in a Melbourne hospital

C R MacIntyre1, M Empson, C Boardman

  • 1National Centre for Immunisation Research, New Children's Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology
|January 5, 2002
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Hospital outbreak risk factors for vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) colonization were identified. Being on the same ward as a VRE case and increased antibiotic use, especially metronidazole, were significant risk factors.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hospital Epidemiology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) pose a significant threat in healthcare settings.
  • Understanding VRE transmission dynamics is crucial for effective outbreak control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify key risk factors associated with VRE colonization during a hospital outbreak.
  • To inform targeted infection control strategies.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study was conducted during a VRE outbreak at a referral teaching hospital.
  • Inpatients colonized with VRE (cases) were compared to those without VRE (controls).
  • Logistic regression analysis was used to determine significant risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Being on the same ward as a VRE case was the strongest risk factor (OR, 82).
  • Increased antibiotic exposure (≥5 antibiotics, OR 11.9) and metronidazole use (OR 10.9) were significant risk factors.
  • Medical patient status (OR 8.1) was also associated with increased risk, while ICU admission showed a decreased risk (OR 0.1).

Conclusions:

  • The findings support an acute hospital outbreak of VRE.
  • Controlling antibiotic use, particularly metronidazole, is essential for reducing VRE.
  • Continuous surveillance and staff education are necessary for VRE prevention.

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