15 Common Causes of Enterococcus Faecalis

Enterococcus Faicalis is an infection that is usually present around the vagina, rectum or in the mouth. It affects the GI tracts most often, but it can also spread to other areas of the body. If left untreated, it can even spread to the brain and cause serious complications such as meningitis. The bacteria spread easily, and it’s not uncommon for there to be outbreaks of it in schools, restaurants, nursing homes, and hospitals. It can spread by person to person contact, and the bacteria can survive on hard surfaces.

Washing your hands properly can kill the bacteria and prevent it from being spread. Once a person ah the infection, they may need to take antibiotics to treat it. The infection is so common that there are many strains that are resistant to medications, making it difficult to treat.

Here are some of the most common causes of an Enterococcus Faecalis infection. 

1. Poor Hygiene

Poor hygiene is the number one cause of Enterococcus Faecalis infections. People who don’t bathe properly or don’t wash their hands after using the restroom can have the bacteria on their hands. When they touch a doorknob, shake hands, or prepare food, that bacteria can be passed on to the next object.

When a person touches or eats something contaminated with the bacteria, they can contract it, and an infection can occur. It can take several days from the time a person is exposed to the bacteria until they start showing symptoms of an infection. Some people do not have a negative reaction to the infection, and the body is able to get rid of it on its own.

Others get really sick and may suffer from recurrent urinary tract infections and abdominal pain.  They may require antibiotics in order to get over the infection and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body.