CDC Investigates Bacterial Infections in WI

An investigation into the source of a bacterial infection which has been linked to 18 deaths and 44 cases of infection is currently underway in Wisconsin. The investigation began over six months ago when six cases were reported to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS). All who fell ill reported symptoms of fever, chills, and shortness of breath. Most troubling was that nearly all were either residents of nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities, or became sick shortly after being admitted to a hospital.

In conjunction with the CDC, state investigators have linked the infections to Elizabethkingia anophelis, a bacteria which rarely causes illness in humans and is an uncommon colonizer of the respiratory tract. In severe cases, infections caused by Elizabethkingia can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis. Sepsis is a severe complication of infection that occurs when chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight the infection trigger inflammatory responses throughout the body. Sepsis is especially lethal to older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

Of the 48 cases reported since November, all were patients over the age of 65 and had a history of at least one underlying serious illness such as cancer, renal disease or diabetes. In one alarming case reported to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, an 87-year-old woman who had tested positive for the bacteria in her bloodstream recently died. The woman had been living in an assisted-living center in Muskego.

Although there have been outbreaks in the past, the current one concerns scientists because of the severity of infections and lack of a single infection “source”. Working diligently to contain and investigate the outbreak, DHS has alerted health care providers and laboratories statewide in order to provide support and treatment guidance.

Elizabethkingia is resistant to many antibiotics, but healthcare providers have been able to treat and improve outcomes for patients with a few antibiotics that been found to be effective. As with most severe illnesses, early detection is key.

Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. are experienced Milwaukee nursing home abuse attorneys eager to represent those who have suffered substantial harm due to nursing home or hospital negligence. If you believe that you have suffered from a bacterial infection similar to the Elizabethkingia anophelis outbreak, we may be able to help. Call us today for a free consultation.