KLEBSIELLA BACTERIA | What is the bacterium Klebsiella and how is it spread? 5 keys

klebsiella bacteria gained popularity in 2019 when his infection led to death within a few days three premature babies, two at the Vall d’Hebron hospital in Barcelona and another at the Josep Truet hospital in Girona. In fact, between 2015 and 2018, Catalonia lived eight buds klebsiella, which could affect 94 babies and resulted in a total of seven deaths, general ten deaths to date.

In the last hours this bacterium became relevant again after the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC), an agency of the European Union, issued a notice informing increase in the spread of this bacterium in Europe

. Moreover, WHO has already classified these bacteria as “dangerous” for his multiple antibiotic resistance.

Below we will explain 5 keys that will help you understand exactly what this bacterium is and how it works.

1. What is the bacterium Klebsiella?

The bacterium Klebsiella is present in intestinal flora humans, although it is found anywhere in the environment and also in the intestines of many living things. Between risk factors With his illness, prematurity appears. “Until four or five years ago, premature babies less than a kilogram weight (the so-called very premature babies), were children “unviable” It has now been increased by 70% the survival of these babies. Despite everything, they still have the immune system

very low, they are extremely fragile,” Gix explained.

2. When is it dangerous and what symptoms does it cause?

These bacteria dangerous outside the intestines. If it reaches other parts of the human body, it can cause infections. Typically they cause pneumonia, sepsis, wound infections and urinary tract infections. If they cannot be controlled, these infections can cause death of the patient.

3. What is the complexity of your treatment?

One of the main problems caused by this bacterium is the difficulty of treating it, since it resistant to most antibiotics.

4. How is it distributed?

These bacteria are usually transmitted contact with skin, mucous membranes, feces, wounds or urine infected person. It is also usually transmitted through contact with materials contaminated

such as catheters, tubes, mechanical ventilation or operating room surfaces.

5. Who is most vulnerable?

people with very low protection (eg premature babies, intensive care unit patients, etc.) are at greater risk of developing an infection caused by this bacterium.