[Prevalence of carbapenemase-producing bacteria in hospitals in Saxony, Germany]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Acquired carbapenem resistance in pathogenic bacteria poses a significant challenge to infection control and treatment.
• An outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing KPC-2 carbapenemase in Saxony prompted a statewide investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a point-prevalence survey for carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria in hospitals across Saxony.
• To assess the prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria, including carbapenemase producers and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers.

Main Methods:

• A survey involving 1,037 patients across 53 hospitals in Saxony, primarily intensive care units, from October 2012 to February 2013.
• Analysis of stool samples and rectal swabs for bacteria resistant to four major antibiotic groups (4MRGN).
• Antimicrobial susceptibility testing to identify carbapenemase producers and ESBL producers.

Main Results:

• Carbapenemase-producing bacteria were detected in 3 patients (0.3%).
• Carbapenem-resistant bacteria without carbapenemases were found in 9 patients (0.9%).
• Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria were identified in 160 patients (16.0%).
• Klebsiella pneumoniae producing KPC-2 carbapenemase was found in 2 patients at one hospital.
• A Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain harboring VIM-1 carbapenemase was identified at another hospital.

Conclusions:

• The survey detected carbapenemase-producing bacteria, including KPC-2 and VIM-1 carbapenemases, indicating a need for continued vigilance.
• The findings underscore the importance of robust infection control measures and surveillance for multidrug-resistant organisms in healthcare settings.