ESBL stands for Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase. Beta-lactamases are enzymes produced by some bacteria that may make them resistant to some antibiotics. ESBL production is associated with a bacteria usually found in the bowel. ESBL bacteria can be present in the bowel of individuals without their knowledge and may survive there harmlessly until the person becomes ill or requires antibiotic therapy.
Anyone can get an ESBL producing bacteria. Patients in hospital/care homes with open wounds, urinary catheters, drainage tubes and those who are ill are at a higher risk of getting an ESBL bacteria.
Anyone receiving a lot of antibiotics, in particular if the course of antibiotics has not been completed for the prescribed period of time, may be at increased risk of getting the bacteria.
Anyone who has had contact with a patient/client that already has an ESBL producing bacteria is also at higher risk.
ESBL bacteria can be spread from person to person on contaminated hands of both patients and healthcare workers. The risk of transmission is increased if the person has diarrhoea or has a urinary catheter in place as these bacteria are often carried harmlessly in the bowel.
Though ESBL producing bacteria are resistant to a number of commonly used antibiotics, there are antibiotics available to treat infections caused by these bacteria.
In some circumstances, treatment can be given at home but more severe infections may require treatment in hospital. If antibiotic treatment is necessary your doctor will discuss this with you.
Some people will carry ESBL resistant bacteria in their bowel without having an active infection and may not require treatment.
It is important that special precautions are taken to stop ESBLs spreading.
Effective control measures include:
If you require further advice or information, please contact the hospital's Infection Prevention and Control Team or a member of the ward/care home staff.
Infection prevention and control is everyone's responsibility.
Healthcare workers, patients and visitors all have an important role to play in preventing the spread of healthcare associated infections.
HSC: Public Health Agency
DHSSPS: Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Produced by the Public Health Agency, 12 – 22 Linenhall Street, Belfast BT2 8BS. Tel: 028 9032 1313.
05/13