Serratia Marcescens Exposure
Exposure to Serratia marcescens can come from many common places. For most people, exposure to Serratia marcescens does not create significant health problems. However, for some, Serratia marcescens can produce severe reactions. Illness attributed to Serratia marcescens is most commonly linked to hospital stays and other forms of healthcare treatment. This link is likely explained by the bacteria’s predatory nature toward weakened immune systems and access beyond surface exposure provided by healthcare treatment. In the past, Serratia marcescens was responsible for approximately 5% of nosocomial (hospital/healthcare related) infections. Today, Serratia marcescens infection accounts for about 2% of all nosocomial blood stream infections. Outside of the nosocomial setting, Serratia marcescens infection and illness are most commonly associated with chronic heroine users.
In the nosocomial setting, infection with Serratia marcescens is most commonly associated with catheter use (intraveneous, intraperitoneal and urinary), respiratory tract instrumentation, valve replacement, transfusions, and intensive care units generally. The exposure to the bacteria can come from contaminated medical equipment, medical supplies, unhygienic practices, and pharmaceutical products utilized during these procedures. Serratia marcescens is a versatile bacterium that can survive in fluids, on plastics, and in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Serratia marcescens infections can develop in isolation, but have frequently developed in clusters at hospitals and healthcare facilities. For example, in the past, outbreaks of Serratia marcescens at individual healthcare facilities have been linked to unhygienic hand washing, contaminated vials, contaminated sinks and faucets, contaminated surgical equipment, contaminated plastic products, contaminated double distilled water, contaminated disinfectant solutions, and employee contaminated narcotic products.
Heparin Syringe Recall
Heparin Lock Flush Solution syringes by Sierra may contain Serratia marcescens bacteria. Experts are warning anyone that has used Lot #070926H pre-filled Heparin Lock Flush Solution syringes to seek immediate medical attention if they develop a fever or other signs of infection (see Heparin Pre-filled Syringes and Blood Infection Symptoms pages for more detailed information).
Contaminated Syringe Lawsuits
If you or a loved one have suffered an injury and contracted the Serratia marcescens bacteria after using Sierra Heparin Lock Flush Solution syringes, then you should contact us immediately to talk to a Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer, certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Nationwide Assistance is available and our consultation is free and confidential. Write us online or call us: Toll Free 1-800-883-9858.
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