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Vancomycin resistant enterococci healthcare associated infections
1Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
Annali Di Igiene : Medicina Preventiva E Di Comunita
|November 29, 2013
Summary
Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) infections are a significant healthcare concern, leading to higher mortality and economic costs. Implementing strict infection control measures is crucial to reduce VRE spread in healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are prevalent multidrug-resistant organisms in healthcare settings.
- VRE poses a significant challenge due to its increasing prevalence and resistance to multiple antibiotics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current epidemiological data on VRE.
- To discuss clinical implications and challenges associated with VRE infections.
- To outline effective infection control strategies for VRE.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed-MEDLINE.
- Data on VRE prevalence, clinical outcomes, and control measures were synthesized.
Main Results:
- VRE prevalence varies significantly across European countries and North America, with some regions showing high rates.
- VRE infections are associated with increased mortality (over two-fold) and higher economic burden compared to vancomycin-susceptible enterococci (VSE).
- Emerging resistance to newer agents like daptomycin and linezolid complicates treatment options.
Conclusions:
- Effective VRE control requires multifaceted strategies including hand hygiene, surveillance cultures, and contact isolation.
- Antimicrobial stewardship programs are essential to manage VRE effectively.
- Reducing VRE colonization and infection incidence is critical in healthcare environments.
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