Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) – Overview
Overview Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) refers to strains of enterococcal bacteria that have developed resistance to the antibiotic vancomycin. Enterococci are bacteria that are commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract and are also found in the environment. While most enterococcal infections can be treated with antibiotics, some strains have become resistant to multiple drugs, including vancomycin. Vancomycin is an antibiotic that is often used to treat serious infections, particularly those caused by Gram-positive bacteria. When enterococci become resistant to vancomycin, it limits the treatment options for infections caused by these bacteria, making them more challenging to manage. Types of VRE: There are two main species of enterococci that are commonly associated with vancomycin resistance: Enterococcus faecium: This species is more commonly associated with vancomycin resistance than Enterococcus faecalis. Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faeci...