Multicenter study on antibiotic susceptibility/resistance trends in the western region of Cameroon

Abstract

In the global frame aiming at assessing bacterial susceptibility for safer and  cost-effective healthcare, the present survey was conducted in three hospitals: Bafoussam Regional Hospital (BRH), Bangwa Protestant Hospital (BPH) and Bangangté District Hospital (BDH). Sampling was performed by fingerprinting on culture media and swabbing of hospital devices or surfaces. Wards of interest included: Pediatrics, Medicine, Operating Theater, Intensive Care Unit, Maternity, and, in the BDH, Laboratory in addition. Culture, isolation, identification and susceptibility tests were conducted according to standard guidelines and assigned contamination rates. Seventeen antibacterial agents were chosen and included representatives of major families of antibiotics used in Cameroon. Analysis of 238 specimens revealed 90%, 86% and 92% contamination rates in the BRH, BPH, and BDH, respectively. On healthcare provider’s hands, the respective rates were 63%, 100% and 91%. Bacillus and Staphylococcus were predominant bacteria types in all settings (BPH: 92%; BDH: 86%; BRH: 81%). Susceptibility profiles indicated high resistance rates and clonal distribution in all settings; and most reduced susceptibility with common drugs. Further investigations and previous works alleged drug use and basic hygiene as crucial in addressing resistance issues for safer care. This would be achieved with State support to public and private institutions.

Keywords: Hospital contamination, Bacillus, Staphylococcus, susceptibility profile, West Cameroon.