Enterococci

Author(s):
Lennox K. Archibald, MD, PhD, FRCP, DTM&H Hospital Epidemiologist

Malcom Randall VA Medical Center
Gainesville, FL

Published:
October 2, 2014

Abstract

Enterococcusis an important organism because it is one of eight classes of pathogens that account for approximately 70 percent of healthcare-associated infections in the United States. This chapter reviews the bacteriology, epidemiology, and infection prevention elements of this organism, as well as diagnosis and treatment of the clinical diseases it produces. The use of active surveillance is discussed as an effective strategy for the reduction of vancomycin-resistant enterococci.