Vancomycin-Resistance Enterococci Infections in the Department of the Defense: Annual Report 2013
Abstract
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) are Gram-positive cocci that are resistant to vancomycin and most commonly infect seriously ill patients that have prolonged hospital stays or antibiotic use. Hospital acquired VRE infections are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality and are a concern for hospitals around the world. The objective of this annual retrospective report is to summarize the VRE infection burden in the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of the Navy (DON) for calendar year (CY) 2013. This summary includes demographic and clinical characteristics, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, prescription practices, and HAI metrics for all DOD and DON beneficiaries. Overall, the incidence rates of VRE in the general US population, the DOD and DON are decreasing. No substantial changes in VRE risk groups were seen for 2013 as VRE continues to affect elderly females and manifest as urinary tract infections. In addition, no substantial changes in antibiotic susceptibility were seen in 2013. Linezolid, gentamicin and streptomycin remain viable treatments for VRE. Although current infection control practices seem to be decreasing the overall burden of VRE, healthcare associated infections are still a major problem for transmission of VRE in the DOD and the DON. Better infection control practices need to be introduced to help control healthcare associated infections.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA609399
Entities
People
- Emma Schaller
- Nicole Dzialowy
- Uzo Chukwuma
Organizations
- Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center