What is VRE (vancomycin-resistant enterococci)?

Enteroccocci are bacteria that are normally present in the human intestines and in the female genital tract and are often found in the environment. These bacteria can sometimes cause infections. Vancomycin is an antibiotic that is often used to treat infections caused by enterococci. In some instances, enterococci have become resistant to this drug and thus are called vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). Most VRE infections occur in hospitals.

What types of infections does VRE cause?

VRE can live in the human intestines and female genital tract without causing disease. However, sometimes, it can be the cause of urinary track infections, blood stream infections and wound infections.

Are certain people at risk of getting VRE?

The following persons are at an increased risk becoming infected with VRE:

• Persons who have been previously treated with vancomycin and combinations of other antibiotics such as penicillin and gentamicin
• Persons who are hospitalized, particularly when they receive antibiotic treatment for long periods of time
• Persons with weakened immune systems such as patients in Intensive Care Units, or in cancer or transplant wards
• Persons who have undergone surgical procedures such as abdominal or chest surgery
• Persons with medical devices that stay in for some time such as urinary catheters or central intravenous catheters.

How common is VRE?

VRE was not reported in U.S. hospitals until 1989. Data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during 2004 showed that VRE caused about 1 of every 3 infections in hospital intensive care units.