An outbreak of vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) is currently active at Rouyn-Noranda hospital, in the Medicine/Surgery unit.
The Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) of AbitibiTémiscamingue indicated that “measures have already been put in place to manage the outbreak in order to prevent the bacteria from spreading to other users and visitors , mainly those weakened by illness. »
“Enterococci are bacteria that are usually found in the intestines and stools of people. In general, enterococci do not cause infection in healthy people. Sometimes they can cause urinary tract infections, wound infections and, more rarely, blood infections. VRE are enterococci that have developed resistance to several antibiotics, including vancomycin. They do not cause more infections than other enterococci, but they may require hospitalization and more difficult and longer treatment,” explained the CISSS de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
VRE is transmitted from one carrier to another through the nearby environment, healthcare equipment or poorly cleaned hands. The presence of this bacteria is identified by a stool sample or rectal screening. VRE can remain in the stool for several weeks, sometimes months. Carriers may therefore still be carriers at the time of new admission to hospital.
The CISSS de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue also reminds that when visiting a hospitalized person, it is recommended to respect the following measures:
• Wash your hands upon arrival and departure from the hospital
• Wash your hands before entering and leaving the room of the person being visited
• Pay particular attention to the entrance to the rooms, as there may be a sign indicating the need to apply specific measures. If this is the case, you must go to the nursing station before entering the room, in order to have additional information
•Wear protective equipment properly, in accordance with the measures indicated and at all times (even when drinking or eating). If you are unsure how to wear the gown, gloves or mask, do not hesitate to ask a staff member for help. If you must leave the room, it is important to remove equipment and perform hand hygiene
• Bring as few things as possible into the room (e.g.: coat, handbags, backpacks). If hooks are available outside the room, please leave your belongings outside
• It is important not to use user toilets. These can be contaminated by various microorganisms, including VRE.
