All articles tagged with #bloodstream infections
A NIH-supported clinical trial found that two doses of dalbavancin are as effective and safe as standard prolonged antibiotic therapy for treating complicated S. aureus bloodstream infections, offering a potentially simpler treatment option with fewer complications.
Scientists have discovered that certain bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli, are attracted to human blood due to the presence of the amino acid L-serine, a phenomenon they've dubbed "bacterial vampirism." These bacteria, commonly found in the human gut, can cause life-threatening bloodstream infections, particularly in individuals with compromised intestinal immune defenses. Understanding this attraction could lead to the development of new treatments to prevent deadly bloodstream infections.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered that certain deadly bacteria are attracted to the liquid part of human blood, a phenomenon they called "bacterial vampirism." The study could lead to medical innovations for treating bloodstream infections, as the bacteria were found to be especially drawn to serine, an amino acid in human blood. Understanding how these bacteria detect blood sources could lead to the development of new drugs to block this ability and improve the health of people at high risk for bloodstream infections.
The CDC warns of an increase in invasive meningococcal disease in the U.S., with 422 cases reported in 2023 and 143 cases already in 2024. Vulnerable demographics include infants, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those on certain medications. The agency urges heightened suspicion for the disease, recommends vaccination, and notes an uptick in infections caused by a specific strain of the bacteria. Symptoms can include meningitis, bloodstream infections, and septic arthritis, with rapid progression and potential life-threatening consequences. Immediate antibiotic treatment is critical, and survivors may experience long-term effects.