COVID-19 pandemic and antimicrobial resistance in developing countries

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic saw a significant increase in antimicrobial agent use globally.
• Developing countries experienced greater antimicrobial drug use and misuse, exacerbating pre-existing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) concerns.
• Factors like telemedicine, societal pressures, and co-infections contribute to widespread antimicrobial prescriptions in resource-limited settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of antimicrobial use during the COVID-19 pandemic on antimicrobial resistance in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs).
• To identify determinants of antimicrobial resistance unique to developing nations.
• To explore potential solutions for combating the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance in LMICs.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of existing literature.
• It synthesizes information on antimicrobial usage patterns during the pandemic.
• It analyzes factors contributing to AMR in LMICs, including waste management and microplastic vectors.

Main Results:

• Increased antimicrobial use during the pandemic has heightened the risk of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in LMICs.
• Inadequate healthcare infrastructure, poor waste management, and microplastic pollution create environments conducive to AMR.
• Emergence of new MDROs poses a severe threat to overburdened health systems in LMICs.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the antimicrobial resistance crisis in lower-middle-income countries.
• Addressing unique local determinants, such as environmental contamination and diagnostic limitations, is crucial.
• Implementing effective infection control and antimicrobial stewardship programs is vital for mitigating future risks.