Antimicrobial resistance and the current refugee crisis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Europe has seen a significant increase in refugees and migrants due to global conflicts.
• High rates of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms are prevalent in refugees' countries of origin.
• Compromised living conditions and hygiene during transit facilitate pathogen transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the role of refugees and migrants as potential vectors of AMR.
• To emphasize the need for screening and infection control measures for arriving populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of available data on MDR organism carriage in refugee populations.
• Analysis of factors contributing to AMR transmission among displaced individuals.

Main Results:

• Refugees often carry a substantial burden of MDR organisms.
• Inadequate infrastructure and hygiene during migration exacerbate the spread of resistant pathogens.
• Refugees can introduce novel AMR mechanisms into low-AMR regions.

Conclusions:

• Routine microbiological screening for MDR organisms in refugees and migrants is recommended upon arrival.
• Implementing effective infection control measures is crucial to prevent the dissemination of AMR.
• These measures protect both the incoming population and the host communities, ensuring patient safety.