Post Syrian war impact on susceptibility rates and trends in molecular characterization of Enterobacteriaceae

OBJECTIVE: Describe susceptibility and molecular profiles among Enterobacteriaceae pathogens and to explore if war, among other factors, can affect antimicrobial resistance. METHODS: Clinical isolates from the Study for Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends associated with urinary tract and intra-abdominal infections between 2011 and 2015 were identified in Lebanon and Jordan. Susceptibility testing and molecular characterization were performed as per standard methods. RESULTS: A total of 1486 Enterobacteriaceae pathogens (including unusual pathogens) were identified. Incidence rates of  extended spectrum β-lactamases were high with an overall higher prevalence of resistance in Jordan compared with Lebanon. CTX-M-15 was the most prevalent extended spectrum β-lactamases produced and OXA-48 the most reported carbapenemases subtype. CONCLUSION: Changes in healthcare system due to war could impact regional resistance patterns and which requires a continuous surveillance program and containment plan.