New “Superbug” Making Hospital Rounds
The recent series of C-Difficile infections in Cape Breton hospitals has brought some media attention to the problem of Hospital Acquired Infections.
I was doing some research on a case and came across information of a new antibiotic resistant “Superbug” that is being found in hospitals.
Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumonia or CRKP is an antibiotic-resistant organism that can cause infections in health care settings like hospitals and nursing homes. The bacteria is often associated with pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound or surgical site infections, and meningitis.
High Mortality
Patients infected with the bacteria have a very high risk of mortality (death). Previous outbreaks have had a mortality rate of up to 35%.
Limited Treatment Options
The CRKP pathogen is an enterobacteria, in the same family of bacteria as E. coli which als has a high mortality rate. CRKP is usually treated with the antibiotic colistin, or a similar drug. However colistin is so strong it is often toxic to patients.
So far CRKP has only been found in healthcare facilities. Unlike C-Difficile and MRSA and other superbugs, the organism has not spread into the community in general.
What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?
Take a look at my previous post for tips on protecting yourself from Hospital Acquired Infections like CRKP, C-Difficile, and MRSA.
