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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

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Published on: February 9, 2024

Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella and Shigella: Epidemiology, Resistance Mechanisms, and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies

Abdullah Ali Almrwani1, Bassam O Al-Johny1, Ali Ahmad Shaibah1

  • 11Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Polish Journal of Microbiology
|August 6, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Multidrug-resistant Salmonella and Shigella infections are a growing global threat due to increasing antibiotic resistance. New therapies and improved diagnostics are urgently needed to manage these infections and enhance patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella and Shigella infections pose a significant and increasing global health challenge.
  • Resistance to key antibiotics like fluoroquinolones and cephalosporins is rising, driven by factors such as ESBL production and plasmid-mediated gene transfer, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically review the epidemiology, molecular resistance mechanisms, and clinical effects of MDR Salmonella and Shigella.
  • To explore emerging therapeutic strategies and discuss challenges in diagnostics, infection control, and antibiotic stewardship for resistance management.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of current research on multidrug resistance in Salmonella and Shigella.
  • Analysis of factors contributing to antibiotic resistance, including genetic mechanisms and geographical hotspots.
  • Evaluation of novel therapeutic approaches and existing management strategies.

Main Results:

  • Increasing global prevalence of MDR Salmonella and Shigella strains resistant to major antibiotic classes.
  • Identification of ESBL production and plasmid-mediated gene transfer as key resistance mechanisms.
  • Emerging therapeutic options include bacteriophage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, nanotechnology-based antimicrobials, and combination regimens.

Conclusions:

  • MDR Salmonella and Shigella infections represent a critical worldwide threat requiring urgent, multidisciplinary action.
  • Effective management necessitates multilateral cooperation, enhanced molecular tracking, rapid diagnostics, and the development of novel therapeutic options.
  • Addressing diagnostic challenges, infection control, and antibiotic stewardship is crucial for combating resistance and improving patient outcomes.
Keywords:
One HealthSalmonellaSaudi ArabiaShigellaantibiotic resistance mechanismsepidemiologymultidrug resistancephage therapy

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