CRE stands for Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales. They are a part (or subgroup) of Enterobacterales. They are difficult to treat because they are resistant to common antibiotics. Sometimes, CRE are completely resistant to all available antibiotics. CRE are a major threat to public health.
Enterobacterales are a family of bacteria that include Klebsiella species and Escherichia coli (E. coli). These bacteria are found in normal human intestines (gut). Sometimes these bacteria can spread outside the gut and cause serious infections. Some examples include pneumonia, bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, wound infections, and meningitis. Enterobacterales are one of the most common causes of bacterial infections in both healthcare and community settings. Carbapenems are a type of antibiotic commonly used to treat severe infections.
CRE usually spreads from one person to another in healthcare facilities. This could happen when someone comes in contact with an infected person or a carrier of the bacteria. This is common through wounds or feces. CRE can cause infections when they enter the body. It can happen through medical equipment such as urinary catheters, intravenous catheters, or wounds caused by surgery or injury.
