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Published on: September 9, 2014
Shigella isolates in stool
P Pearce1, H Ghuman, H Prabhakar
1Department of Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana.
Abstract:
A total of 447 Shigella strains were isolated from stool samples during 1989-1991. Of these 270 (60%) were from children. Among the different species and serotypes Sh. flexneri 60 (13.4%) and Sh. sonnei Phage 139 (65%) were the most frequently isolated strains. 154 (34.4%) strains were resistant to three and 179 (40%) to more than three antibiotics. Some strains of Shigella were found to be resistant to furazolidine and neomycin.
Insights
Shigella infections are common in children, with frequent resistance to multiple antibiotics observed. This study highlights the prevalence of Shigella flexneri and Shigella sonnei strains and their antibiotic resistance patterns.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Shigella is a significant cause of bacterial dysentery, particularly in children.
- Antibiotic resistance in Shigella poses a growing public health threat.
- Understanding local resistance patterns is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize Shigella strains isolated from stool samples.
- To determine the prevalence of different Shigella species and serotypes.
- To assess the antibiotic resistance profiles of these strains.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and identification of Shigella strains from stool samples.
- Serotyping of Shigella isolates.
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing.
Main Results:
- A total of 447 Shigella strains were isolated between 1989-1991.
- Shigella flexneri (13.4%) and Shigella sonnei (65%) were the most common isolates.
- A high proportion of strains (34.4% to three, 40% to more than three antibiotics) exhibited multidrug resistance.
- Resistance to furazolidine and neomycin was also noted.
Conclusions:
- Shigella infections, especially Shigella sonnei and Shigella flexneri, are prevalent in the study population.
- High rates of multidrug resistance in Shigella strains necessitate careful antibiotic selection.
- Continuous surveillance of Shigella epidemiology and antibiotic resistance is essential.
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