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Different trends of MRSA and VRE in a German hospital, 1999-2005

C Goll1, P Balmer, F Schwab

  • 1Kreiskrankenhaus Eckernfoerde,, Teaching Hospital of University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Schleswiger Str. 114-116, 24340 Eckernfoerde, Germany.

Infection
|July 25, 2007
PubMed

Insights

This study tracked Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) in a German hospital from 1999-2005. MRSA rates increased while VRE rates decreased, despite similar hygiene measures.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hospital Epidemiology

Background:

  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) are critical nosocomial pathogens.
  • Both MRSA and VRE have shown significant increases in colonization and infection rates in Germany.
  • Understanding trends and differences in these pathogens is crucial for infection control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze and compare the incidence trends of MRSA and VRE in a German University Hospital.
  • To investigate potential factors contributing to differing trends between MRSA and VRE.
  • To assess patient characteristics associated with MRSA and VRE infections.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of all MRSA and VRE positive cases from 1999 to 2005.
  • Data collection included patient demographics, infection status, and acquisition source.
  • Statistical comparison of MRSA and VRE cases regarding infection rates, outcomes, and acquisition.

Main Results:

  • A total of 1,179 MRSA cases and 116 VRE cases were reported.
  • MRSA rates significantly increased from 1999 to 2005, while VRE rates showed a clear decrease.
  • VRE was associated with fewer infections but higher mortality and nosocomial acquisition compared to MRSA.

Conclusions:

  • Divergent trends of MRSA and VRE, despite consistent hygiene protocols, require further investigation.
  • An increasing proportion of non-nosocomially acquired MRSA may contribute to its rising rates.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the reasons behind the contrasting epidemiological trajectories of these key pathogens.

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