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Published on: September 14, 2013

Multiresistant Enterobacter cloacae outbreak in an intensive care unit associated with therapeutic beds

Nathalie van der Mee-Marquet, Sophie Girard, François Lagarrigue

    Critical Care (London, England)
    |March 18, 2006
    PubMed

    Insights

    A multiresistant Enterobacter cloacae outbreak occurred in an intensive care unit. The outbreak was linked to mattresses with antibacterial polyurethane covers, highlighting a potential source of hospital-acquired infections.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious Diseases
    • Hospital Epidemiology
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • An intensive care unit (ICU) experienced an outbreak of multiresistant Enterobacter cloacae.
    • The outbreak was epidemiologically linked to therapeutic bed mattresses.

    Discussion:

    • The specific mattress covers implicated were made of polyurethane, featured antibacterial treatment, and were designed to be vapour-permeable.
    • This suggests that even advanced materials may harbor and transmit multidrug-resistant organisms.

    Key Insights:

    • Enterobacter cloacae can persist and spread via seemingly inert materials like specialized mattress covers.
    • Multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) outbreaks necessitate a thorough investigation of environmental reservoirs.

    Outlook:

    • Further research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of antibacterial treatments on mattress covers against specific pathogens.
    • Enhanced surveillance and disinfection protocols for high-risk medical equipment are crucial for preventing future outbreaks.

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