The bacteria Klebsiella oxytoca has been in the spotlight in Mexico after the recent outbreak detected in hospitals State of Mexico, which led to the issuance of an epidemiological alert by the Ministry of Health. This microorganism, known for its ability to cause serious infections In hospital settings, it is a cause for concern, especially in vulnerable patients.
Klebsiella oxytoca It belongs to the group of gram-negative bacteria that, although they can live without causing harm in the intestine of people, under certain circumstances become opportunistic pathogens. This means that they take advantage of specific conditions, such as weakened immune systems o invasive medical proceduresto cause severe infections.
The recent outbreak is related to possible contamination in the total parenteral nutrition (TPN)a method of intravenous feeding used in patients who cannot eat food through conventional means.
TPN involves the use of liquid solutions containing essential nutrients, administered directly into the bloodstream. This process, although vital for certain patients, requires a extremely careful handling to avoid the introduction of microorganisms.
Contamination can occur during the preparation, storage or administration of medical supplies. In this case, it is suspected that the bacteria could have been introduced into the supply chain of the products used, affecting 15 patients hospitalized in four medical units of the State of Mexico.
Infections caused by this bacteria can manifest in different ways, depending on the affected system. In the context of the current outbreak, which involves bloodstream infections, the most common symptoms include:
- High fever and chills.
- Accelerated heart rate (tachycardia).
- Difficulty breathing.
- Confusion or alterations in mental status, in serious cases.
- Signs of sepsiswhich is a generalized inflammatory response of the body to a serious infection.
If not treated promptly, the infection can lead to complications such as multiple organ failure, which significantly increases the risk of mortality.
Klebsiella oxytoca It mainly affects hospitalized people, especially those in critical condition or who require invasive medical devices, such as catheters or mechanical ventilators. Patients receiving parenteral nutrition or broad-spectrum antibiotics are also vulnerable, as these conditions alter the body’s bacterial balance.
Recently, authorities have indicated that newborns, older adults and immunocompromised people are the most susceptible to these types of infections.
Early detection and appropriate management of nosocomial infections such as those caused by Klebsiella oxytoca They are essential to prevent its spread. This case highlights the need for strengthen hygiene practices and quality controls in hospitalsespecially in critical procedures such as the preparation of parenteral nutrition.
For its part, the Ministry of Health has implemented epidemiological surveillance measures to contain the outbreak, reinforcing inspections in the medical supply chain and recommending strict monitoring of patients at risk.
