The outbreak began in February 2024 with a few cases at Höglandsjukhuset in Eksjö, before a major spread occurred on medical wards at Länssjukhuset Ryhov from August to September 2024. The infection chain has been traced fairly well, though in some cases it remains unclear from exactly which patient the transmission occurred. An investigation revealed several causes, including deficiencies in hygiene and clothing rules, inadequate cleaning routines, unclear responsibility distribution for cleaning certain surfaces, insufficient knowledge among new employees about infection routes, and infected patients being moved within and between hospitals.
According to Jonas Lind, operations manager at the medical clinic, most infected patients became passive carriers without getting sick, but one patient suffered a urinary tract infection and sepsis. As a result, a Lex Maria report was made due to the outbreak's extent and multiple causes. Several preventive measures have been implemented, including a new routine for infection tracing during outbreaks of multidrug-resistant bacteria, ensuring sufficient staffing and correct competence for cleaning, clarifying guidelines for limiting patient transfers, increasing quality controls, and ensuring all staff follow hygiene routines.
Gunnel Svedeskog Karlsson, operations manager at operations support and service, stated that the entire cleaning and disinfection process has been reviewed, with responsibility distribution clarified between service and healthcare staff. Separately, Haukeland University Hospital has found 22 patients with VRE since January 1 this year, with the outbreak limited to the surgical clinic. Patients admitted to that clinic should be screened for antibiotic-resistant bacteria if transferred to other hospitals.