What is esbl infection?

ESBL stands for extended spectrum beta-lactamase. It's an enzyme found in some strains of bacteria. ESBL-producing bacteria can't be killed by many of the antibiotics that doctors use to treat infections, like penicillins and some cephalosporins. This makes it harder to treat.

An infection with ESBL germs can be in any part of the body, including blood, organs, skin, and sites where surgery was done.

There are many ways ESBL germs can be spread. The most common ways are by touching a person or thing that has the bacteria on it. The infection is more likely to spread in a hospital. For some people, especially those who are weak or ill, an ESBL infection can be serious.

Symptoms of an ESBL infection are similar to other infections. Which symptoms you have will depend on where the infection is. For example:

• If the infection is in the skin, that area may be red or tender.
• If it's in the urinary tract, you may have back pain, a burning sensation when you urinate, or a need to urinate more often than usual.
• If it's in the lungs, you may have a cough and trouble breathing.

You may also:

• Have diarrhea.
• Feel weak and sick.
• Have fever and chills.

Your doctor will give you antibiotics to treat the infection. Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics. Taking only some of the medicine may cause antibiotic-resistant bacteria to develop.

You may have to stay in the hospital for treatment.