How To Avoid Klebsiella Infection

Avoiding a Klebsiella infection—a bacterial infection that can cause pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), bloodstream infections, and wound infections—mostly involves good hygiene, proper medical care, and infection control, especially in healthcare settings where it’s more common.

Here’s how to reduce your risk of Klebsiella infection:

1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap is unavailable.
Especially important:
- Before eating
- After using the restroom
- After touching hospital surfaces or medical devices

2. Avoid Unnecessary Use of Antibiotics

Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can promote antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella strains.
Only use antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Complete the full course as directed.

3. Maintain Good Personal Hygiene

Shower regularly.
Keep wounds clean and covered.
Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, or toothbrushes.

4. Practice Safe Urinary Catheter Care

If you or a loved one requires a catheter, follow strict sterile procedures.
Healthcare workers should use aseptic technique and change catheters as recommended.

5. Disinfect and Clean Surfaces Regularly

Especially in healthcare settings or at home if someone is ill.
Use EPA-approved disinfectants to clean frequently touched surfaces.

6. Stay Healthy to Boost Immunity

Eat a balanced diet, exercise, and get enough sleep.
Control underlying conditions like diabetes, which increase infection risk.

7. Be Cautious in Healthcare Settings

Klebsiella is a common hospital-acquired infection.
Follow all infection control guidelines.
Ask healthcare providers if they have proper sterilization protocols.

8. Avoid Close Contact With Infected People

If someone is known to have a Klebsiella infection, minimize contact until they’re treated.

9. Stay Hydrated and Urinate Regularly

Helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing UTI risk.