The prevalence of Carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPO) is increasing in B.C. with new cases reported in both long-term care homes and hospitals. 

To better protect long-term care residents from a common superbug that can cause serious illness, we are proactively screening for CPO in owned and operated care communities. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared antimicrobial resistance a significant public health threat.

 “We know that long-term care residents often have weakened immune systems which put them at risk for multi-drug resistant organisms,” says Dr. Kevin Afra, executive medical director, Infection and Prevention Control and Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs. “Being able to identify CPO early will provide more opportunities for quicker intervention and reduced transmission within the long-term care community, and possibly, acute settings, as there can be transfer back and forth between both.”

The screening project aims to achieve several objectives:

• Determine the prevalence of CPO among residents.

• Identify risk factors associated with CPO positivity.

• Inform surveillance strategies.

• Provide recommendations for enhanced infection prevention and control practices.

During the screening process, long-term care staff collect stool samples or rectal swabs, which are then tested for CPO.

“Our residents’ comfort and dignity remain a priority,” says Dr. Akber Mithani, regional medical director, Integrated Long-Term Care and Assisted Living. “We’re collaborating with residents, family members and care providers across communities to facilitate testing and create a safe and healthy environment for everyone.”

If a resident is found to be carrying or colonizing CPO, they can still fully participate in daily and social activities. Care teams will monitor for early signs of illness and implement enhanced environmental hygiene measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.

It’s essential to recognize that everyone carries germs. For most people, having CPO bacteria in the gut is no more dangerous than encountering other germs. However, vulnerable individuals, especially those in long-term care, face a higher risk of developing serious infections that are challenging to treat.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared antimicrobial resistance a significant public health threat. The WHO and the European Centre for Disease Prevention recommend surveillance of long-term care residents to understand the prevalence of CPO and other multi-drug-resistant organisms within this population.