Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE)

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) is a type of bacteria that has become resistant to the antibiotic vancomycin, which is often used to treat serious infections. Enterococcus bacteria naturally live in the human gut and sometimes cause infections in wounds, the urinary tract, or the bloodstream. When these bacteria develop resistance, infections become harder to treat and may require alternative antibiotics. VRE is primarily spread in healthcare settings through contact with contaminated surfaces or infected individuals. Preventing its spread involves strict hygiene practices and careful use of antibiotics.