Fermenting Gram negative bacillus, of the Enterobacteriaceae family
Widely distributed in nature and part of normal GI flora
Associated with both community and nosocomial infections:
Friedlander's disease due to K. pneumoniae classically involves upper lobs, "currant jelly" sputum, and abscess/cavity (often alcoholic or diabetic patients)
May require contact precautions if highly resistant e.g. ESBL, carbapenem resistant.