Bacteremia Outbreak Due to <i>Achromobacter xylosoxidans</i> in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients
Background: Hospitalized COVID-19 patients are particularly vulnerable to secondary bacterial infections, which can significantly worsen clinical outcomes. The aim of the study was to identify the cause of bacteremia in a group of hospitalized COVID-19 patients and find out the source of the outbrea...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Microbiology Research |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2036-7481/16/7/156 |
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| Summary: | Background: Hospitalized COVID-19 patients are particularly vulnerable to secondary bacterial infections, which can significantly worsen clinical outcomes. The aim of the study was to identify the cause of bacteremia in a group of hospitalized COVID-19 patients and find out the source of the outbreak to prevent further spread. Methods: Pathogen identification in blood cultures and sensitivity testing were carried out using the automated VITEK2 system. A total of 110 samples were tested; these were collected from patients’ colonization sites and from surfaces, materials and fluids used in the setting. Furthermore, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were employed to characterize the isolates. Results: <i>Achromobacter xylosoxidans</i> was detected in the blood of nine hospitalized patients and in cotton used for disinfection; all isolates presented an identical antibiotic resistance pattern, and all carried the <i>bla</i><sub>OXA-114</sub> gene which is intrinsic to this species. Infection control measures were implemented promptly. With one exception, all patients recovered and were discharged in good health. Conclusions: This outbreak underscores the urgent need for investigation and control of hospital infections, as bacteremia is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, hospitalization time, and cost. It also highlights the importance of close collaboration among healthcare professionals. |
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| ISSN: | 2036-7481 |