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[Infections caused by multiresistant enterococci in Norway]
S Harthug1, N Langeland, A Digranes
1Avdeling for sykehushygiene, Haukeland Sykehus, Bergen.
Abstract:
During the last decade antimicrobial resistant pathogens have become a major medical problem. Internationally, multiresistant enterococci have increased nosocomial morbidity and mortality. Such strains are often resistant to ampicillin, aminoglycosides, and glycopeptides such as vancomycin. The spread of these strains has been shown to correlate to the use of antibiotics and the practice of suboptimal infection control within health care facilities. The current situation in Norwegian hospitals is presented, including the only six cases with infections and the three carriers of vancomycin resistant enterococci found to date. Surveillance in the hospitals shows that such strains are uncommon in non-infected patients. To maintain this favourable situation it is necessary to continue to practice effective methods of infection control and to employ sound antibiotic policies.
Insights
Multidrug-resistant enterococci pose a significant threat in healthcare settings. Norway maintains a low prevalence through diligent infection control and antibiotic stewardship, highlighting the importance of these measures.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Context:
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health concern, particularly with multidrug-resistant pathogens like enterococci.
- Nosocomial infections caused by vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality worldwide.
- VRE strains often exhibit resistance to key antibiotics, including ampicillin, aminoglycosides, and vancomycin.
Purpose:
- To present the current situation of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in Norwegian hospitals.
- To assess the prevalence of VRE infections and carriers in a national healthcare context.
- To underscore the importance of infection control and antibiotic policies in managing VRE.
Summary:
- Internationally, multidrug-resistant enterococci have increased healthcare-associated infections and mortality.
- The spread of these resistant strains is linked to antibiotic use and inadequate infection control.
- In Norwegian hospitals, only six VRE infections and three carriers have been identified to date, indicating a favorable situation.
- Surveillance confirms VRE is uncommon in non-infected patients within these facilities.
Impact:
- Maintaining a low prevalence of VRE in Norwegian hospitals is crucial for patient safety.
- Effective infection control practices are essential to prevent the emergence and spread of VRE.
- Judicious antibiotic policies are vital for preserving the efficacy of existing treatments and combating AMR.