Outbreak of Serratia Blood Stream Infection: A Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Level Neonatal Unit in India.

OBJECTIVE

To report an outbreak of multi drug resistant Serratia infection in a tertiary level neonatal unit from eastern India.

METHOD: Relevant data were retrieved from review of medical records. Standard methods for management of outbreak were carried out, and numerous infection control measures were implemented.

RESULT: Out of the 6 reported cases of Serratia marcescens blood stream infections, majority were premature and all of them had a prior exposure to broad spectrum antibiotics. Most of the neonates (83.3%) survived. Median time of onset of symptoms was 22.5 (range: 2-83) days. Respiratory difficulty and thrombocytopenia were the most common presenting feature and laboratory abnormality observed.

CONCLUSION

Serratia marcescens may lead to potentially serious outbreak neonatal unit. Prompt isolation of cases, Improving hand hygiene practice amongst healthcare professionals, limiting the use of broad spectrum antibiotics in NICU could help to contain the outbreaks to a large extent.