Introduction: Outbreaks in the intensive care units have a devastating impact in any healthcare setting, especially Tertiary care hospitals. Conventionally, outbreaks have been described using the “shoe leather” approach. Understanding of emerging infectious microorganisms requires laboratory isolation as a vital tool in investigation of outbreaks. Notorious microorganisms are commonly associated with such outbreaks. This requires “disease detectives” to maintain a constant vigil. Material & methods: In this analytical study we summarize five outbreaks at our Tertiary care centre over a period of 18 months. The outbreaks were investigated by the Infection control team following the recommendations of CDC (10 step approach ). Results & Discussion: Three outbreaks occurred in the adult intensive care unit (ICU). Gram negative organisms (Acinetobacter spp & Chryseobacteriumindologenes) predominated as etiological agents(66%) from blood, urine and endotracheal tube aspirates. All outbreaks in the Neonatal ICUs were caused by Acinetobacter spp., which was isolated from blood samples of neonates. Despite our vigorous efforts the source was identified only in one outbreak. Significant mortality was seen in all outbreaks (probably multifactorial). Conclusion: A constant scrutiny especially in the high risk areas can help in limiting the number of cases and timely intervention cannot let the micro-organisms escape unfathomed.