What is a key characteristic of VRE?

The key characteristic of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus (VRE) is its resistance to vancomycin. VRE is a type of enterococcus bacteria that has developed resistance to the antibiotic vancomycin, which is typically used to treat serious infections caused by gram-positive bacteria. This resistance presents a significant challenge in clinical settings because it limits the options for effective treatment of infections caused by these pathogens, making them a critical concern in healthcare environments.

VRE can be found in various areas, not exclusively in hospitals, as it can also be present in the community, but it is more commonly associated with healthcare settings due to factors like increased antibiotic use and the presence of vulnerable populations. While enterococci can colonize the skin, they are also found in the gastrointestinal tract, and their ability to survive in various niches contributes to their persistence in healthcare environments.

Thus, the defining feature of VRE is its resistance to vancomycin, which underscores the importance of monitoring and controlling its spread in healthcare facilities to prevent healthcare-associated infections.