Limiting and controlling carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae

Abstract

Lisa Saidel-Odes,1,2 Abraham Borer1,21Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology Unit, 2Infectious Diseases Institute, Soroka University Medical Center and the Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, IsraelAbstract: Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is resistant to almost all antimicrobial agents, is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality, and poses a serious threat to public health. The ongoing worldwide spread of this pathogen emphasizes the need for immediate intervention. This article reviews the global spread and risk factors for CRKP colonization/infection, and provides an overview of the strategy to combat CRKP dissemination.Keywords: carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, infection control, cohort, active surveillance, rectal cultures