Routine Whole Genome Sequencing Identified Unrecognized Outbreak

Prospective whole genome sequencing of bacterial isolates detected an outbreak of vancomycin-resistant enterococci infections related to nonsterile interventional radiology procedures.

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of bacterial isolates has proven useful in establishing the source and magnitude of nosocomial infection outbreaks. Could routine prospective WGS surveillance of every isolate of certain organisms detect an otherwise occult outbreak and help trace its locus and mechanism?

To find out, investigators analyzed WGS surveillance data on isolates of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) collected at a large academic medical center between November 2016 and November 2017. The analysis revealed a previously unrecognized VRE cluster of 10 genetically related VRE (Enterococcus faecium).

Using standard epidemiologic investigation of this cluster, the researchers determined that exposure to interventional radiology was a si…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Routine Whole Genome Sequencing Identified Unrecognized Outbreak

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Reviewing Author