<s>[INST] My 70 year old male friend who is diabetic has had a few UTIs which they are now treating a second time with Cipro.  He was told it is enterococcus faecalis.  He has had the same partner for 3 years. He is asking:  Is this transmittable through intercourse or oral sex?  What is best antibiotic for this bacteria? Thank you. [/INST] Hi, Enterococci are most commonly transmitted due to poor hygiene. Since it is naturally present in the gastrointestinal tract, E. faecalis is found in fecal matter. Improper cleaning of items containing fecal matter, or not washing hands after restroom use, can increase the risk of bacterial transmission. Everyday objects such as telephones, doorknobs, towels, and soaps can also contain E. faecalis. The bacteria can spread throughout hospitals if healthcare workers do not wash their hands between patients. If not thoroughly cleaned, catheters or dialysis ports can also transmit infection. Enterococci are eradicated with a combination of certain cell wall–active drugs (e.g., penicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, piperacillin, vancomycin) plus an aminoglycoside (e.g., gentamicin, streptomycin) is used to achieve the bactericidal activity. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. AJEET SINGH, General & Family Physician </s>