Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) What is VRE? Enterococci are bacteria that are normally present in the human gut and in the female genital tract, and are often found in the environment, like in soil and water. Enterococci bacteria are constantly finding new ways to avoid the effects of the antibiotics used to treat the infections they cause. If these germs develop resistance to vancomycin (an antibiotic that is used to treat some drug-resistant infections) they become Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE). Who are at risk? • People who have been previously treated with antibiotics, including vancomycin, for long periods of time • People who are hospitalised, have undergone surgical procedures, or have medical devices inserted in their bodies • People with weakened immune systems
How is it spread? VRE can spread from person to person or through contact with contaminated surfaces. It is not spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. How are VRE infections treated? Most people will carry VRE in their body— also known as being colonised— without it causing symptoms. People who are colonised do not require treatment. If VRE infection does develop, the patient is generally treated with antibiotics other than vancomycin.