Klebsiella er en slekt av gramnegative bakterier som finnes i miljøer som jord, vann og menneskets tarm. Enkelte arter, inkludert Klebsiella pneumoniae, kan forårsake alvorlige infeksjoner i lungene, blodbanen, urinveiene og sår. Disse bakteriene er kjent for sin resistens mot mange antibiotika, noe som gjør dem til en betydelig utfordring i helsesektoren.
Testing for Klebsiella is important for individuals with symptoms of severe infections, such as pneumonia or UTIs, particularly in hospital environments or among those with weakened immune systems. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, especially given the bacteria’s resistance to many common antibiotics.
Klebsiella overgrowth can occur due to:
Klebsiella infections are often contracted in healthcare settings, particularly through person-to-person contact or contaminated equipment. Those with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions are at higher risk. The bacteria can enter the body through medical devices, open wounds, or the respiratory tract.