VRE symptoms to watch for
Many people carry enterococci without any symptoms at all. When an infection does occur, the signs depend on where the bacteria have settled in the body.
Bloodstream infection
Fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and confusion. This is a medical emergency, especially in people who are already hospitalized or have weakened immune systems.
Urinary tract infection
Burning or pain when urinating, needing to urinate more often, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and lower abdominal discomfort. In hospitalized patients, these infections may be silent at first.
Wound or surgical-site infection
Redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or pus at the site of a wound, catheter, or recent incision. The area may feel tender or look unusually discolored.
When to seek urgent care
- A fever of 38°C / 100.4°F or higher while in hospital or recently discharged.
- Shaking chills, rapid breathing, or a racing heartbeat.
- New confusion, extreme tiredness, or dizziness.
- Worsening pain, redness, or discharge from a wound or catheter site.
If you or a loved one has any of these signs — especially after a hospital stay — contact a healthcare professional immediately.