Antibiotics

Research

15 pages, 615 KB

Open AccessArticle

Point Prevalence Survey of Antibiotic Use in Latin American Hospitals: 2022–2023

by Paola Lichtenberger, Gabriel Levy-Hara, Robin Rojas-Cortés, Tatiana Orjuela, Jose Pablo Diaz-Madriz, Pilar Ramon-Pardo, Jose Luis Bustos, Anahí Dreser, Tania Herrera, Marcela Pilar Rojas-Diaz, Giovanna Huaquipaco, Didia Sagastume, Jose Luis Castro and on behalf of the Latin American PPS Group

Antibiotics 2025, 14(11), 1078; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14111078 - 27 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health challenge, exacerbated by the inappropriate use of antibiotics (ABs) and the lack of standardized surveillance in healthcare settings. Objective: The Latin American PPS aimed to provide a standardized methodology for monitoring antibiotic use, gather data [...] Read more.

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health challenge, exacerbated by the inappropriate use of antibiotics (ABs) and the lack of standardized surveillance in healthcare settings. Objective: The Latin American PPS aimed to provide a standardized methodology for monitoring antibiotic use, gather data on antibiotic prescription practices, and support initiatives for antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). Methodology: Using a Spanish-adapted version of the WHO PPS methodology, a point prevalence survey (PPS) was conducted between 2022 and 2023 in 67 hospitals across five Latin American countries. Results: A total of 11,094 patients were surveyed, of which 47.9% received at least one AB; surgical and intensive care units displayed the highest prevalence. Most prescribed AB were third-generation cephalosporins (3GC) (22.0%), carbapenems (12.1%), glycopeptides (9.2%), and penicillin combinations (8.6%). A substantial use of agents classified under the WHO’s “Watch” group was found, with notable variances across countries. A multilevel logistic regression model identified that patient age, ICU admission, recent hospitalization, the presence of a catheter, and intubation were significantly associated with higher odds of AB use. In contrast, patients admitted to obstetric or pediatric wards had lower odds of receiving antibiotics. The model revealed considerable heterogeneity between countries, even after adjusting clinical and demographic factors. Conclusions: This study highlights AMS opportunities through targeted interventions, such as optimizing surgical prophylaxis, reducing the use of 3GC, carbapenems, and glycopeptides, and improving adherence to CPGs. These findings provide a comprehensive framework for policymakers and healthcare facilities to develop AMS strategies tailored to the Latin American context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 4612 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of a Gluten-Free Diet on the Intestinal Microbiota of Women with Celiac Disease

by M. Mar Morcillo Serrano, Paloma Reche-Sainz, Daniel González-Reguero, Marina Robas-Mora, Rocío de la Iglesia, Natalia Úbeda, Elena Alonso-Aperte, Javier Arranz-Herrero and Pedro A. Jiménez-Gómez

Antibiotics 2025, 14(8), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14080785 - 2 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by small intestinal enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion, often associated with gut dysbiosis. The most effective treatment is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD), which alleviates symptoms. This study uniquely integrates taxonomic, [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by small intestinal enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion, often associated with gut dysbiosis. The most effective treatment is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD), which alleviates symptoms. This study uniquely integrates taxonomic, functional, and resistance profiling to evaluate the gut microbiota of women with CD on a GFD. Methods: To evaluate the long-term impact of a GFD, this study analyzed the gut microbiota of 10 women with CD on a GFD for over a year compared to 10 healthy controls with unrestricted diets. Taxonomic diversity (16S rRNA gene sequencing and the analysis of α and β-diversity), metabolic functionality (Biolog EcoPlates^®), and antibiotic resistance profiles (Cenoantibiogram) were assessed. Results: Metagenomic analysis revealed no significant differences in taxonomic diversity but highlighted variations in the abundance of specific bacterial genera. Women with CD showed increased proportions of Bacteroides, Streptococcus, and Clostridium, associated with inflammation, but also elevated levels of beneficial genera such as Roseburia, Oxalobacter, and Paraprevotella. Despite no significant differences in metabolic diversity, higher minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in women in the healthy control group suggest that dietary substrates in unrestricted diets may promote the proliferation of fast-growing bacteria capable of rapidly developing and disseminating antibiotic resistance mechanisms. Conclusions: These findings indicate that prolonged adherence to a GFD in CD supports remission of gut dysbiosis, enhances microbiota functionality, and may reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance, emphasizing the importance of dietary management in CD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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Graphical abstract

18 pages, 2265 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pathogenomic Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Strains Carrying Wide Efflux-Associated and Virulence Genes from the Dairy Farm Environment in Xinjiang, China

by Muhammad Shoaib, Sehrish Gul, Sana Majeed, Zhuolin He, Baocheng Hao, Minjia Tang, Xunjing Zhang, Zhongyong Wu, Shengyi Wang and Wanxia Pu

Antibiotics 2025, 14(5), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14050511 - 15 May 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1401

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Livestock species, particularly dairy animals, can serve as important reservoirs of E. coli, carrying antibiotic resistance and virulence genes under constant selective pressure and their spread in the environment. In this study, we performed the pathogenomic analysis of seven multidrug [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Livestock species, particularly dairy animals, can serve as important reservoirs of E. coli, carrying antibiotic resistance and virulence genes under constant selective pressure and their spread in the environment. In this study, we performed the pathogenomic analysis of seven multidrug resistant (MDR) E. coli strains carrying efflux-associated and virulence genes from the dairy farm environment in Xinjiang Province, China. Methods: First, we processed the samples using standard microbiological techniques followed by species identification with MALDI-TOF MS. Then, we performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) on the Illumina NovaSeq PE150 platform and conducted pathogenomic analysis using multiple bioinformatics tools. Results: WGS analysis revealed that the E. coli strains harbored diverse antibiotic efflux-associated genes, including conferring resistance to fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, aminocoumarins, macrolides, peptides, phosphonic acid, nitroimidazole, tetracyclines, disinfectants/antiseptics, and multidrug resistance. The phylogenetic analysis classified seven E. coli strains into B1 (n = 4), C (n = 2), and F (n = 1) phylogroups. PathogenFinder predicted all E. coli strains as potential human pathogens belonging to distinct serotypes and carrying broad virulence genes (ranging from 12 to 27), including the Shiga toxin-producing gene (stx1, n = 1). However, we found that a few of the virulence genes were associated with prophages and genomic islands in the E. coli strains. Moreover, all E. coli strains carried a diverse bacterial secretion systems and biofilm-associated genes. Conclusions: The present study highlights the need for large-scale genomic surveillance of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in dairy farm environments to identify AMR reservoir spillover and pathogenic risks to humans and design targeted interventions to further stop their spread under a One Health framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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14 pages, 699 KB

Open AccessArticle

One Health Approach: Antibiotic Resistance Among Enterococcal Isolates in Dairy Farms in Selangor

by Sakshaleni Rajendiran, Yuvaneswary Veloo, Salina Abdul Rahman, Rohaida Ismail, Zunita Zakaria, Rozaihan Mansor, Maslina Mohd Ali, Hassuzana Khalil and Syahidiah Syed Abu Thahir

Antibiotics 2025, 14(4), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14040380 - 4 Apr 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1159

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern. The One Health approach is essential in addressing antibiotic (AR) resistance. Therefore, this study aimed to determine AR among enterococcal isolates in dairy farms across various domains based on the emerging dairy industry. Methods: [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern. The One Health approach is essential in addressing antibiotic (AR) resistance. Therefore, this study aimed to determine AR among enterococcal isolates in dairy farms across various domains based on the emerging dairy industry. Methods: A total of 208 enterococcal isolates from the workers = 70, milk = 76, and environment = 62 of eight dairy farms in Selangor, Malaysia, were used in this study. The bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) were conducted utilising the Vitek-2 system. Results: Approximately 28% of the isolates exhibited susceptibility to all tested antibiotics. A relatively higher proportion of isolates demonstrated resistance to tetracycline, which was followed by erythromycin. The multidrug resistance (MDR) and multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index were low in this study. Conclusions: The studied dairy farms exhibited lower AR, MDR, and MAR index values. Nevertheless, ongoing surveillance is essential due to the recent expansion of the dairy farming industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 2986 KB

Open AccessArticle

Outbreak of Carbapenem-Resistant High-Risk Clone ST244 of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Dogs and Cats in Algeria

by Amina Badis, Nouzha Heleili, Manel Merradi, Ammar Ayachi, Piera Anna Martino, Gabriele Meroni and Alessio Soggiu

Antibiotics 2025, 14(3), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14030230 - 24 Feb 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1785

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes chronic infections in humans and animals, especially cats and dogs. This bacterium’s ability to adapt and acquire antibiotic resistance traits may complicate and exacerbate antibacterial therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic resistance patterns, virulence factors and ability [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes chronic infections in humans and animals, especially cats and dogs. This bacterium’s ability to adapt and acquire antibiotic resistance traits may complicate and exacerbate antibacterial therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic resistance patterns, virulence factors and ability to form biofilms of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from Algerian dogs and cats. Methods: Nineteen samples were collected from healthy and diseased dogs and cats. Isolates were studied for their antibiotic-resistance patterns (disc diffusion method) and biofilm formation (Microtiter assay) and were whole-genome sequenced (MinION). Results: Nineteen P. aeruginosa strains (15 from dogs and 4 from cats) were isolated. Antibiotic-resistance phenotypes were observed against amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (100%); meanwhile, resistance towards ticarcillin was 40% (dogs) and 25% (cats), ticarcillin–clavulanic acid was 13.33% and 25% for dogs and cats, respectively, and imipenem was 75% (cats) and 20% (dogs). Moreover, 95% of strains were biofilm-producers. Different antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) were found: beta-lactamase genes, mainly PAO, OXA-494, OXA-50 and OXA-396 and an aminoglycoside gene (aph(3′)-IIb). The main high-risk sequence types (STs) were ST244, 2788, 388 and 1247. A large panel of virulence genes was detected: exoS, exoT, exoY, lasA, toxA, prpL, algD, rhIA and others. Conclusions: The genetic variety in antibiotic-resistance genes of resistant and virulent P. aeruginosa strains in dogs makes public health protection difficult. Continuous monitoring and research in compliance with the One Health policy are needed to solve this problem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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14 pages, 864 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Escherichia coli in the Environment, Cow Dung, and Milk of Selangor Dairy Farms

by Yuvaneswary Veloo, Sakshaleni Rajendiran, Zunita Zakaria, Rohaida Ismail, Salina Abdul Rahman, Rozaihan Mansor and Syahidiah Syed Abu Thahir

Antibiotics 2025, 14(2), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14020137 - 1 Feb 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3423

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to global public health urgently needs attention. Misuse of antimicrobials in sectors such as dairy farming has led to the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria and genes. This study investigated AMR patterns and profiles [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to global public health urgently needs attention. Misuse of antimicrobials in sectors such as dairy farming has led to the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria and genes. This study investigated AMR patterns and profiles of Escherichia coli (E. coli) from various sources, including soil, effluent, cow dung, and milk. Methods: A total of 192 samples were collected, comprising environmental samples (soil and effluent), cow dung samples, and milk samples from eight dairy farms in Selangor, Malaysia. The spread plate method was employed to isolate E. coli, and all the isolates were subjected to Gram staining to identify Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria. The Vitek^® 2 system was used for E. coli identification and susceptibility testing. Results: The prevalence of E. coli identified in the eight farms was 66.1%. A total of 360 E. coli isolates were successfully isolated, and 19.7% of the isolates presented AMR with ampicillin exhibiting the highest resistance (18.3%), followed by trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (8.9%). Additionally, 8.9% of them were multidrug resistant, which could be divided into 16 patterns. For the extended spectrum beta-lactamase screening, nine isolates were positive. Conclusions: This finding emphasizes the rise in resistant isolates in the growing dairy industry and underscores the urgency of addressing the potential reservoir of AMR. Therefore, essential measures such as continuous surveillance and effective antimicrobial stewardship programs are crucial for regulating veterinary antimicrobial use. Research on the mechanisms driving the development and dissemination of AMR is imperative for addressing One Health concerns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 617 KB

Open AccessArticle

Resistance to Critical Important Antibacterials in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius Strains of Veterinary Origin

by Alessandro Bellato, Patrizia Robino, Maria Cristina Stella, Laura Scarrone, Daniela Scalas and Patrizia Nebbia

Antibiotics 2022, 11(12), 1758; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11121758 - 5 Dec 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2354

Abstract

Staphylococcal infections represent a challenge in companion animals and hospitalized patients. This study aimed to assess the resistance of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates, against a broad panel of antibacterials, including exclusive to human medicine. A total of 40 S. pseudintermedius were collected from clinical [...] Read more.

Staphylococcal infections represent a challenge in companion animals and hospitalized patients. This study aimed to assess the resistance of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates, against a broad panel of antibacterials, including exclusive to human medicine. A total of 40 S. pseudintermedius were collected from clinical specimens of dogs (n = 31) and cats (n = 5). All strains were tested for 20 antibacterials, namely 14 Critical Important and eight Highly Important Antibacterials (CIA and HIA, respectively), indicative for 18 antimicrobial classes. All strains were susceptible to seven antibiotics (daptomycin, fosfomycin, fusidic acid, linezolid, quinupristin-dalfopristin, teicoplanin/vancomycin, tigecycline). The highest resistance was against penicillin (97.5% Confidence Interval [CI]: 83.8–100.0), whereas the lowest against telavancin (2.5%, CI: 0.0–16.2). Resistance versus Highest Priority CIA was observed, namely against macrolides (70.0, CI: 52.1–84.3), quinolones (62.5, CI: 44.5–78.3), 5th generation cephalosporins (7.5, CI: 1.3–21.6), and glycopeptides (2.5%, CI: 0.0–14.2). Among High Priority CIA, strains were resistant only to aminoglycosides (65.0, CI: 47.0–80.4) and ansamycins (12.5, CI: 3.8–28.1). We observed the highest resistance against veterinary medicine antibacterials, but there was also resistance against antibacterials exclusive to human medicine, namely ceftaroline (7.5, CI: 1.0–23.8) and telavancin. S. pseudintermedius zoonotic potential and its rate of acquisition of new resistance should encourage surveillance on a broad spectrum of antibacterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 635 KB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Community Pharmacy Professionals on Poultry Antibiotic Dispensing, Use, and Bacterial Antimicrobial Resistance in Zambia: Implications on Antibiotic Stewardship and WHO AWaRe Classification of Antibiotics

by Steward Mudenda, Moses Mukosha, Brian Godman, Joseph Fadare, Sydney Malama, Musso Munyeme, Christabel Nang’andu Hikaambo, Aubrey Chichonyi Kalungia, Audrey Hamachila, Henson Kainga, Flavien Nsoni Bumbangi, Victor Daka, Ruth Lindizyani Mfune, Geoffrey Mainda, Webrod Mufwambi, Prudence Mpundu, Maisa Kasanga, Shereen Ahmed Mohammed Saad and John Bwalya Muma

Antibiotics 2022, 11(9), 1210; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics11091210 - 7 Sep 2022

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7118

Abstract

Globally, the inappropriate dispensing and use of antibiotics in animals has contributed to the development of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Zambia, there is insufficient information among community pharmacy professionals on antibiotic use (ABU) and AMR in food-producing animals. This study assessed community [...] Read more.

Globally, the inappropriate dispensing and use of antibiotics in animals has contributed to the development of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Zambia, there is insufficient information among community pharmacy professionals on antibiotic use (ABU) and AMR in food-producing animals. This study assessed community pharmacy professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding poultry antibiotic dispensing, use, and bacterial AMR in the Lusaka district of Zambia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 178 community pharmacy professionals between February and April 2022 using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Stata version 17. Of the total participants (n = 178), 51.1% (n = 91) were pharmacists. The most dispensed antibiotic was oxytetracycline, a Watch antibiotic, mainly without prescriptions. Good knowledge of ABU and AMR was associated with work experience for more than one year (p = 0.016), while good practices were associated with male gender (p = 0.039) and work experience of more than one year (p = 0.011). The study found moderate knowledge, positive attitudes, and moderate practices of pharmacy professionals on poultry ABU and AMR. There was high dispensing of poultry antibiotics without prescriptions, which calls for strict implementation of antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance programs in poultry production in Zambia to reduce AMR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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Review

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42 pages, 1418 KB

Open AccessReview

The Invisible Threat of Antibiotic Resistance in Food

by Gabriella Kiskó, Belma Bajramović, Fatma Elzhraa, Patrícia Erdei-Tombor, Viktória Dobó, Csilla Mohácsi-Farkas, Andrea Taczman-Brückner and Ágnes Belák

Antibiotics 2025, 14(3), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14030250 - 1 Mar 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4641

Abstract

The continued and improper use of antibiotics has resulted in the emergence of antibiotic resistance (AR). The dissemination of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms occurs via a multitude of pathways, including the food supply. The failure to comply with the regulatory withdrawal period associated with the [...] Read more.

The continued and improper use of antibiotics has resulted in the emergence of antibiotic resistance (AR). The dissemination of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms occurs via a multitude of pathways, including the food supply. The failure to comply with the regulatory withdrawal period associated with the treatment of domestic animals or the illicit use of antibiotics as growth promoters has contributed to the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in meat and dairy products. It was demonstrated that not only do animal and human pathogens act as donors of antibiotic resistance genes, but also that lactic acid bacteria can serve as reservoirs of genes encoding for antibiotic resistance. Consequently, the consumption of fermented foods also presents a potential conduit for the dissemination of AR. This review provides an overview of the potential for the transmission of antibiotic resistance in a range of traditional and novel foods. The literature data reveal that foodborne microbes can be a significant factor in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 3785 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

One Health Antimicrobial Resistance in Qatar: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Animal, Food, and Environmental Reservoirs

by Lubna I. Abu-Rub, Ristha Kamar, Cut Salsabila Fatin, Susu M. Zughaier and Nahla O. Eltai

Antibiotics 2025, 14(12), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14121219 - 3 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat that extends beyond clinical settings, impacting animals, food, and the environment. To the best of our knowledge, this review presents the first systematic evaluation of AMR and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in non-human sources [...] Read more.

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat that extends beyond clinical settings, impacting animals, food, and the environment. To the best of our knowledge, this review presents the first systematic evaluation of AMR and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in non-human sources in Qatar, using a One Health framework. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched five major databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar (only 3 pages) and QRDI, without date restrictions for studies on AMR and ARGs in animals, food, and environmental sources in Qatar. Only primary studies from Qatar reporting phenotypic or genotypic AMR/ARG data in animals, food, or the environment were included; all human-focused, non-Qatar, or non-primary research were excluded. Eligible studies were screened and analyzed using GraphPad Prism 10.4 and StatsDirect, applying random- or fixed-effects models based on heterogeneity and assessed for quality using the JBI checklist for prevalence. Results: Fifteen eligible studies published up to 2025 were included. Escherichia coli was the most frequently reported organism. High resistance rates were observed in the Access group antibiotics, such as ampicillin (0.50; 95% CI: 0.47–0.53) and tetracycline (0.50; 95% CI: 0.45–0.55), as well as in the Watch group antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin (0.40; 95% CI: 0.36–0.44) and fosfomycin (0.26; 95% CI: 0.20–0.32). Resistance to Reserve group antibiotics was comparatively lower, with pooled estimates of 0.14 (95% CI: 0.08–0.20) for colistin and 0.11 (95% CI: 0.05–0.25) for carbapenems, though lower, remains concerning. The overall pooled estimate for multidrug resistance (MDR) was 0.56 (95% CI: 0.36–0.72), and poultry was identified as the main reservoir, particularly to Critically Important Antimicrobials (CIAs). ARGs, including bla_CTX-M, bla_TEM, mcr-1, and qnr, were detected across all sectors, with wastewater showing a notable ARG burden. Data on other livestock species remain limited. Limitations include a few studies, variable quality, and inconsistent methods affecting comparability and precision. Conclusions: This review highlights significant AMR and ARG prevalence in non-human sources in Qatar and underscores the urgent need for a national One Health surveillance strategy incorporating WHO AWaRe and CIA frameworks to address this escalating public health threat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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14 pages, 1124 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Bats as an Important Source of Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria: A Systematic Review

by Julio D. Soto-López, Manuel Diego-del Olmo, Pedro Fernández-Soto and Antonio Muro

Antibiotics 2025, 14(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14010010 - 26 Dec 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2827

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Bats are the second-largest known order of mammals, accounting for about twenty percent of the species described to date. This group has special importance in health and epidemiology because they are considered hosts of a wide range of antimicrobial-resistant human pathogens. [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Bats are the second-largest known order of mammals, accounting for about twenty percent of the species described to date. This group has special importance in health and epidemiology because they are considered hosts of a wide range of antimicrobial-resistant human pathogens. Over the past few decades, the emergence of pathogenic bacteria resistant to antimicrobials has been a growing threat to public health, especially given its repercussions such as deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance and economic losses in the healthcare sector. Results: The diversity of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, the different methodologies in numeric analysis, and the variety of antibiotics reported in this review make it difficult to establish the scope of the effect of bats on the antimicrobial resistance crisis. Methods: In this systematic review, we focus on the existence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria associated with bats and summarize the main findings of studies conducted on the topic to date. Conclusions: Surveillance is essential to control the emergence of resistant bacteria related to bats, which could eventually affect humans, as this is a problem of a ‘One Health’ nature, with effects on human, animal, and environmental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance: A One-Health Approach, 2nd Edition)

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