Detection of Serratia marcescens in neonatal intensive care units requires a rapid and comprehensive infection control response starting with the very first case

Background: Serratia marcescens is a well-known and challenging pathogen in neonatal intensive care units. It is responsible for severe infections and can cause nosocomial outbreaks. Methods: We present the infection control response to a Serratia marcescens cluster which occurred in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit. Results and conclusions: The presented comprehensive and decisive hygiene management response starting with the very first case aims especially at early detection and immediate interruption of nosocomial transmission. Frequent and sensitive microbiological screening, rigorous spatial isolation of colonized infants, and reinforcing adherence to hand hygiene are essential in this response, which comprises eight measures. It prevented a full-blown outbreak.