What bacteria to watch out for?
November 2, 2022

There are different types of viruses and bacteria that cause infections in the human body. As well as being unpleasant, these infections can in some cases cause us more serious health problems. What bacteria are the most critical and how to protect yourself from them?

Watch out for drug-resistant bacteria

According to the WHO, the most critical group is bacteria resistant to several types of drugs and antibiotics. It is these types of bacteria that you should be particularly careful of. Because they are resistant to drugs, treating the infection can be more difficult and time-consuming.

These include E. coli and Klebsiella bacteria, which will be discussed in this article. These types pose a particular threat in hospitals and social care facilities where frequent handling of equipment and medical devices is required.

How can you protect yourself from contracting the bacteria?

Bacteria are a common cause of infection or food poisoning and in several cases can cause health complications. However, you can reduce the risk of infection by good hygiene and regular disinfection.

Medical facilities

In hospitals and social care facilities, the likelihood of infection can be reduced by frequent disinfection and wearing protective equipment and clothing. Usually, Klebsiella and E. coli bacteria are transmitted here by direct person-to-person contact, for example when healthcare staff touch contaminated hands to an open wound. However, they can also be transmitted through contaminated medical equipment, linen or clothing.

  • If you are in hospital, use Prolen® Medical antibacterial and antiviral clothing, which is permanently treated with silver and zinc ions and is resistant to nosocomial infections.
  • Wash your hands after touching hospital surfaces.
  • Regularly clean and disinfect medical devices and equipment.

Home environment

Klebsiella and E. coli bacteria are usually transmitted in households through contaminated food, water or hands. In the home environment, you can reduce the risk of infection by washing your hands thoroughly and practicing good hygiene when handling food.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the toilet.
  • Do not touch your mouth with dirty hands.
  • Prepare and serve food at appropriate temperatures.
  • Keep household surfaces clean.
  • Do not prepare food if you have diarrhea.

What is the difference between Klebsiella and E. Coli?

  1. coli and Klebsiella are two types of bacteria in the Enterobacteriaceae family. These bacteria are the causative agents of various infections in our body. The main difference between E. coli and Klebsiella is the area of the body in which they cause infection. E. coli attacks the gastrointestinal system and the urinary tract. Infections caused by Klebsiella most often attack the respiratory system.