New CDC Video Shows How Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Spread Between Healthcare Facilities

Today, a growing number of infections are caused by antibiotic-resistant germs. In fact, these resistant germs cause more than 2 million illnesses and at least 23,000 deaths each year in the United States. In a new video, “CDC Vital Signs-Making Health Care Safer: Stop the Spread of Antibiotic Resistance,” CDC spotlights how antibiotic-resistant germs are spreading between healthcare facilities, even those that are practicing infection control and antibiotic stewardship. By adopting a coordinated approach, where multiple facilities in an area work together to improve infection control, enhance stewardship activities, and share information, we can reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant germs and protect patients from infections that are difficult-or even impossible-to treat with antibiotics.
 
CDC’s August 2015 Vital Signs report shows that by working together in a coordinated effort healthcare facilities and health departments in a targeted area could prevent up to 70 percent of life-threatening carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections over five years.
 
In a recent American Hospital Association (AHA) blog titled “Breaking the Chains of Infections,” Dr. John R. Combes says, “America’s hospitals stand ready to work with the community and other caregivers to prevent the spread of infection.”