Officials warn about 'Superbug' threat in hospitals

Reported by: Christina Butler

Contributor: Rachel Snody
Set Text Size SmallSet Text Size MediumSet Text Size LargeSet Text Size X-Large
Share
Updated: 3/07 6:13 pm
A new threat in hospitals, it's being called a 'Superbug'.

Carbapenem-Reisitant Enterobacteriaceae is referred to as CRE, and it's picked up by people in hospitals.

Doctors say this isn't something normally healthy people have to worry about.  They say it often happens in health care settings where patients are being seen for other issues.

But some reports say, it can also have a 50% death rate.

Dr. John Goldman with Pinnacle Health, says the mortality rate for CRE is high because it makes a pre-existing condition worse.  He says that's also why the superbug is spread or developed in hospitals.

But because the bacteria is resistant to most antibiotics, it's difficult to treat.

A recent CDC study shows 200 hospitals treated at least one person for CRE in 2012.

It spreads among patients and health care workers, which is why Dr. Goldman says the best defense is hand washing, with soap and water.

The CDC has established guidelines for health care facilities to combat CRE. Click on Find It for the list.
Share
0 Comment(s)
Comments: Show | Hide

Here are the most recent story comments.View All

The views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of WHP CBS 21 [Harrisburg]

No comments yet!
Links featured on CBS 21 News
CBS 21 First Warning Weather
61°
Cloudy
High 63° Low 61°

Inergize Digital This site is hosted and managed by Inergize Digital.
Mobile advertising for this site is available on Local Ad Buy.