[Genotypic exploration of a hospital neonatal outbreak due to Klebsiella pneumoniae producing extended-spectrum-betalactamase]

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study was to explore nosocomial neonatal outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing extended-spectrum-betalactamase by macrorestriction genotyping.

Patients and methods: Over a 25 days period, a hospital neonatal outbreak due to Klebsiella pneumoniae producing extended-spectrum-betalactamase affected 14 newborn infants admitted to a university hospital in Sousse (Tunisia). We collected 21 strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing extended-spectrum-betalactamase. Susceptibility testing to 17 antibiotics was determined. Macrorestriction genotyping of strains was determined by pulsed-field-electrophoresis. Neonatal intensive care unit survey was undertaken.

Results: A macrorestriction genotyping subdivided 21 strains into 3 clonally groups. Only cefoxitin, colistin, imipenem, amikacin and quinolons were active on the whole of strains. All infected babies died. The hygiene insufficiency and contamination of transfusion products at the time of their dividing in neonatal intensive care unit were incriminated. Handholding due to work overcharge was the main cause of bacterial diffusion.

Conclusion: Multiclonal outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing extended-spectrum-betalactamase appeared following hygiene insufficiency related to work overcharge.