Klebsiella pneumoniae is a superbacteria that is resistant to most antibiotic medications. Treatment for a klebsiella infection can be complicated, and can lead to other bacteria to become resistant as well.

A Klebsiella pneumoniae infection is considered to be serious and is more common to be picked up in the hospital, especially by children, older adults, people with a compromised immune system, and people who are hospitalized for prolonged periods of time.

Klebsiella pneumoniae infectionsare curable, but a cure can be difficult as there are limited antibiotics capable of destroying this microorganism. Because of its resistance, it is important for preventive measures to be adopted in the hospital by the patient, health care providers and visitors to prevent the spread of this bacteria.

Common symptoms

The main symptoms of a Klebsiella pneumoniae infection include:

Fever above 39ºC,

Increased heart rate;
Difficulty breathing;
Dry cough or phlegm;
Chest pain;
General malaise;
Urinary tract infection, especially during pregnancy, leading to symptoms such as pain and burning when urinating, dark and strong-smelling urine, increased urinary frequency and a feeling of heaviness in the bladder.

In some cases, patients may also experience low blood pressure, generalized swelling and organ failure, especially when the infection is left untreated.

Confirming a diagnosis

A Klebsiella pneumoniae infection is diagnosed through a culture, which is normally ordered when an infection is suspected.

The culture can also be requested with a sensitivity test, which can test the detected bacteria against several antibiotics to determine whether it is reactive or resistance.

How it's transmitted

Transmission of Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria can occur through direct contact with contaminated saliva and other secretions from the infected patient or through sharing contaminated objects.

This bacteria has already been found in bus terminals and public bathrooms, and as it can easily spread through contact with the skin or through the air. Anyone is at risk for becoming infection.

Klebsiella pneumoniae infections are more likely to occur in children, older adults or those with a weakened immune system. They are also more likely to develop in those who are hospitalized for prolonged periods of time, who received chronic IV therapies, are connected to breathing machines, and in those undergoing prolonged treatments with antibiotics.

Prevention measures

To prevent the transmission of Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria, be sure to:

Wash your hands before and after contact with patients in the hospital;
Use gloves and a protective mask when coming into contact with an infected patient;
Avoid sharing objects with an infected patient;
Clean and disinfect surfaces close to the infected patient.

It is believed that Klebsiella pneumoniae has become gradually more resistant due inappropriate and overuse of antibiotic medication. Therefore, it is important to take antibiotics as prescribed by a doctor, and to adhere to treatment for the duration indicated.

Treatment options

Treatment for Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria is usually done in a hospital setting with IV antibiotics, like polymyxin B or tigecycline. The best antibiotic for treatment will usually be guided by the results of the culture and sensitivity report.

Because this bacteria is resistant to most antibiotics, it is possible for the doctor to change the medication as needed or to target it with a combination of antibiotics.

While the patient is hospitalized, he or she must remain in insolation to avoid transmitting the bugs to other patients and family members. Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be donned when caring for the patient.

Is Klebsiella pneumoniae curable?

A Klebsiella pneumoniae infection can be cured when it is properly identified and treatment with antibiotics is started immediately.. It is important for treatment to be carried out in a hospital setting, as this allows for proper monitoring and treatment with antibiotics given at the right time and in the right dose.