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VRE is a bacterial infection that occurs when Enterococcus bacteria become resistant to the antibiotic vancomycin. It is spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces and is most common in those who have been treated with vancomycin for an extended period or have a weakened immune system. Proper hand washing and isolation precautions can help prevent the spread of infection. Treatment may involve intravenous antibiotics and multiple prescriptions. Those with weak immune systems should avoid contact with infected individuals.
VRE stands for vancomycin resistant enterococci. A VRE infection occurs when Enterococcus bacteria develop resistance to the antibiotic that normally kills it. Vancomycin has been used for many years to keep specific bacteria in check. Recently, strains of this bacterium have become resistant to this antibiotic, prompting medical professionals to find other drugs to help kill it.
Enterococci are bacteria normally found in the mouth, intestines and female genital area. Under normal circumstances, this type of bacteria is nothing to worry about. Sometimes, however, it will cause an infection elsewhere in the body. When this happens, an individual may develop fever, chills, or a wound infection.
Those who are most susceptible to a VRE infection are individuals who have been treated with vancomycin for an extended period of time. Those who have been hospitalized or are living in a long-term health care facility are at a higher risk of developing this infection. Anyone with a weakened immune system may also be more susceptible.
This type of infection is usually spread by direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as tables or doorknobs. A healthcare worker can spread the bacteria to other individuals in the same healthcare facility if proper precautions are not taken. It is recommended that any individual in such a facility who has been diagnosed with VRE be placed in a private room. Workers caring for the individual should wear gloves and a protective suit to prevent the spread of infection.
The best way to prevent the bacteria that cause a VRE infection is proper hand washing. Hands should be washed after caring for an individual with the bacterial infection. You must use soap and water and scrub all surfaces of your hands thoroughly. The faucet should be closed with a paper towel to avoid recontamination.
Treatment for VRE may involve taking intravenous antibiotics. A doctor may need to prescribe several antibiotics to help clear up the infection completely. Blood samples and urine samples may be taken to determine exactly what type of antibiotic is needed to clear the infection.
Individuals who have weak immune systems should not care for or visit a person who has been infected with the bacteria. Even infants and young children should not come into contact with people with VRE. The infection can be easily spread and can make those with weak immune systems very ill.
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