Resistant Enterococcal Infections & using probiotics containing lactobacillus rhamnosus

Enterococci are part of the normal intestinal flora of humans and animals. We have a symbiotic and positive relationship with enterococci, but they are increasingly seen as dangerous pathogens to humans and ones that pose severe risks since they have a natural resistance to antibiotics.

Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium are the most frequently identified species accounting for more than 90% of clinical practice isolates out of a possible 17 enterococci that we know of. Enterococcus faecium accounts for most vancomycin-resistant enterococci infections.

Enterococci have both a natural and acquired resistance to antibiotics, which is why they are of such grave concern to doctors and nursing staff and why they have their place on the disturbing list of hospital-acquired pathogens.

Recent research offers an exciting way forward suggesting, as it does that probiotics are useful effective allies in the battle with Enterococci, but above all probiotic blends which contain Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG.