Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPEs) are a group of bacteria commonly found in the gut and they can cause serious infections that cannot be treated with the standard antibiotics.
CPE can cause infections in the blood, urine, lungs, and skin/soft tissue. CPE infections can be difficult to treat and often require special antibiotic treatments.
Those with a weakened immune system and risk factors such as long-term medical conditions, indwelling medical devices, frequent or prolonged hospitalization, previous antibiotic treatment and those who have travelled to countries/regions are more likely to develop CPE infections.
For most patients, CPE resides harmlessly in the bowel and do not cause infection. This is known as colonisation. Patients can carry CPE in their bowel without it spreading to other parts of the body or causing infection.
CPE takes a long time to clear off. As a precautionary measure, as long as you remain positive in the hospital, you will be isolated in a single room with en-suite toilet.
Yes, they can. Proper hand hygiene is required before and after visiting.
CPE can be transmitted through contact from one patient to another. Healthcare workers are required to wear personal protection to prevent transmission.
You can practise good personal hygiene and hand hygiene at home. Remember to wash your hands after using the bathroom.
