Drug-resistant bacteria threaten newborns' lives across Asia

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Sydney highlights a growing crisis in neonatal healthcare across Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Indonesia and the Philippines. Analyzing nearly 15,000 blood samples collected from sick infants in ten hospitals between 2019 and 2020, the researchers found alarming evidence that the standard treatments recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) are failing to combat drug-resistant infections. The majority of cases involved gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, and Acinetobacter, which are notorious for their adaptability and resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics. Approximately 80% of the infections stemmed from these pathogens, which pose a serious risk to newborns who are especially vulnerable. The research pointed out that existing global guidelines are inadequately based on data from high-income countries, ignoring the distinct bacterial resistance patterns prevalent in Southeast Asia. Dr. Phoebe Williams, a senior author of the study, emphasized the urgent need to revise these guidelines to be more reflective of local bacterial profiles and resistance patterns. If not addressed, the rising mortality rates among newborns due to sepsis and other infections are likely to continue. The study reveals an alarming trend: pathogens previously known to primarily infect older babies are now responsible for serious infections in neonates just days after birth. Compounding the issue, medical professionals often lack the time to wait for lab results prior to initiating treatment for critically ill infants. This situation leads to reliance on broad treatment guidelines that do not align with the resistance patterns observed in different hospital settings. Furthermore, the study uncovered a significant concern regarding fungal infections, which were found in nearly 10% of cases—this rate is substantially higher than would typically be expected in high-income countries. Despite the pressing nature of this health crisis, there is currently a scarcity of new antibiotics in the development pipeline specifically targeting newborn infections. According to Michelle Harrison, a co-author of the study and a PhD candidate, the lengthy process required to trial and approve new drugs for infants can take around a decade. Given the dearth of new treatment options, the researchers are calling for substantial investment into antibiotic development. While the findings are primarily focused on Southeast Asia, the implications are extensive, extending beyond regional borders. New South Wales, Australia has maintained robust infection data which is crucial for monitoring the effectiveness of first-line therapies as antibiotic resistance continues to evolve. Harrison expressed that Australia’s geographical proximity and interconnectedness with Southeast Asia heightens the need for vigilance in keeping treatment guidelines updated and for developing innovative solutions to address these alarming findings. The study has prompted calls for accelerated efforts in both research and the development of new antibiotics to ensure the safety of vulnerable infants across the region.