Escalating threat of multidrug-resistant bacteria: Insights from a low-middle income country setting

Infections due to multidrug-resistant bacteria have become a global threat, increasing morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs. The main drivers for antimicrobial resistance are indiscriminate antimicrobial use, poor drug quality and lack of antimicrobial stewardship programs.

This one-year prospective study aimed to determine the prevalence of multidrug-resistant bugs among hospital-acquired infections (HAI) in a low-middle income country.

Depending on the clinical suspicion, various samples were processed as per standard protocols. Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index was calculated, and isolates were characterized into multi-/extensively/pan-drug resistant isolates (MDR/ XDR/ PDR).

Nosocomial bacterial infections were identified in 13% patients which yielded 165 isolates (85% Gram-negative). 89.6% of these GN isolates were MDR, 77.5% of which were XDR and 2.8% PDR.

By prioritizing infection control measures, early detection and judicious empirical antimicrobial use, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the risk of HAIs and ensure a safer environment for patients.