Abstract
Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are well-recognised nosocomial pathogens that pose a significant threat to public health. Associated with poorer clinical outcomes than their vancomycin-sensitive counterparts, the prevalence of VRE in Ireland has increased in recent times, with the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network reporting that out of 29 countries, Ireland demonstrated the highest rates of vancomycin resistance among invasive Enterococcus faecium isolates between 2011 and 2014 (2011; 34.9%, 2012; 44.0%, 2013; 42.7%, 2014; 45.1%). Herein, we investigate VRE prevalence in the Mercy University Hospital (MUH) – an acute care hospital in southern Ireland. A total of 21 first-time VRE infections were identified over a 40 day period between January and March 2021, representing a prevalence of 24.7%. In addition, one vancomycin-sensitive linezolid-resistant strain was isolated from an Intensive Care patient, and environmental analysis revealed the presence of an extensive VRE reservoir, with isolates identified on a keyboard, bedside desk, and electricity bar of a primary observation unit. We also highlight the actions taken – including staff training and surface decontamination – to curb transmission of the pathogen and prevent a full-scale VRE outbreak developing within the hospital.
Recommended Citation
Casey, Dylan
(2021)
"An Investigation Into The Prevalence of Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci within an Irish Hospital,"
International Undergraduate Journal of Health Sciences: Vol. 1:
Iss.
2, Article 2.
Available at:
https://sword.cit.ie/iujhs/vol1/iss2/2
