At times, treatment is limited to antibiotic combinations or experimental therapy. This depends on the individual resident and the type of VRE infection involved. Because treatment of VRE infection is often difficult, it may involve longer hospitalization and treatment with antibiotics. The length of illness caused by VRE infection depends upon the severity of the infection, the response to antibiotic therapy, and the person's overall health. Most individuals who are colonized with VRE never develop infection.
Colonization can last indefinitely.
Healthy people are not usually at risk of serious VRE disease. Those at increased risk include people with chronic illnesses, recent surgery, poor immune systems and those with urinary catheters or intravenous lines. Handwashing is the most important measure. Good household cleaning with a household disinfectant is adequate. Laundry can be done according to manufacturer's directions using standard detergent.