Overview
Enterobacteriaceae is a group of bacteria often found in human and animal intestines. E. coli, Klebsiella spp. and Enterobacter spp. are in this group. Enterobacteriaceae that develop resistance to a group of antibiotics called carbapenems are called carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE).
Some CRE produce enzymes (cabapenemases) that break down carbapenems and related antibiotics, making them ineffective. These CP-CRE are increasingly more common in healthcare settings. CP-CRE can transmit resistance from one Enterobacteriaceae to another. When a lab finds a CRE, it must forward it to the state Public Health Lab. Healthcare providers and public health will coordinate appropriate infection control interventions to prevent transmission within and between healthcare settings
You must report confirmed CP-CRE within 24 hours.
CP-CRE is rare, must be reported within 24 hours, and confirmed by a lab. Healthcare providers and public health will coordinate appropriate infection control interventions to prevent transmission within and between healthcare settings. To report, call the reporting line: (360) 678-2301, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. After hours: call (360) 678-7270 or Washington State Department of Health (206) 418-5500.
Resources
- CRE, DOH.
- Notifiable Conditions.