From the Research
The estimated Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) fecal carriage rate in India is approximately 18.1% in hospitalized patients, as reported in a study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology in 2017 1. This rate is concerning, given the potential for CRE carriers to transmit the bacteria to others and develop difficult-to-treat infections themselves. The carriage rate may vary based on factors such as geographic location, healthcare exposure, and antibiotic use patterns. Some key points to consider include:
- The study found that 42 out of 232 patients (18.1%) were colonized with CRE, with 27 isolates carrying the blaNDM-1 gene and 20 isolates carrying the blaVIM gene 1.
- The presence of any indwelling device and nasogastric tube were identified as independent risk factors for acquiring gut colonization with CRE 1.
- The widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, variable infection control practices, and high population density may contribute to the elevated carriage rates in India.
- Regular surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, and improved infection control measures are essential to address this public health challenge. It is worth noting that other studies have reported varying rates of CRE carriage, but the study by 1 provides the most relevant and recent data on this topic in the Indian context.