Carbapenamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae (Contact)
Date issued: June 2026
Review date: June 2029
Leaflet section: Infection prevention and management
PDF: Carbapenamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae (Contact).pdf [pdf] 201KB
Infection Prevention and Management Team
Information for patients who have been in contact with someone who is a CPE carrier or has an infection caused by CPE
Why have you been given this leaflet?
You have been in contact with someone who has CPE.
This means there is a small chance you may also be carrying the bacteria.
What happens next?
To check for CPE, we will offer you screening:
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A rectal swab (a small swab gently inserted into your bottom), or
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A stool (Faecal) sample
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Results are usually available in 2-3 days
If your result is negative, no further action is needed during this admission.
Do you need more than one test?
Sometimes more than one test is needed:
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You may have weekly screening while in hospital
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This may continue for up to 4 weeks during your stay
What happens if you are admitted to hospital again?
If you are readmitted:
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There will be an alert on your record
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You will be screened for CPE again as a precaution
You may also:
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Be cared for in a single room
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Have screening samples taken on admission
Important: These measures will not affect your care or treatment.
How is CPE spread?
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By direct contact with another person
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By touching contaminated surfaces or equipment
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Good hygiene reduces the risk of spread.
What can you do?
You can help reduce the risk by:
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Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water:
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After using the toilet
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Before eating and drinking
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Avoiding touching:
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Wounds
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Medical devices (such as drips or catheters)
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If they get into the wrong place, they can cause infection
What is CPE?
CPE are bacteria that live in the gut.
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Many people carry them without symptoms
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They are resistant to some antibiotics
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If they enter other areas of the body, they can cause infection
Does CPE always need treatment?
No.
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CPE often live in the gut without causing harm
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This is called colonisation
Treatment is only needed if you develop an infection
What does this mean for you and your family?
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Being a contact does not mean you are unwell
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Screening is a precaution to keep patients safe
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Good hygiene helps protect you and others
What does this mean for you and your family?
Speak to a healthcare professional if:
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You feel unwell
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You think you may have an infection
Take any information cards given to you to healthcare appointments.
Being a CPE contact will not hinder your care in any way.
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
