Trends in Antimicrobial Resistance in Gaza Strip, 2020–2022: Retrospective Study

Author(s): Hashem M. Mansour, Rana A. Kurraz, Ahmed Al Rabii, Khalil I. Masood

Objectives: In this study, we analyzed the data on antimicrobial resistance in the bloodstream. This study aims to evaluate the bacterial resistance in the Gaza Strip and compare with that in other countries.

Methods: This study was conducted retrospectively in the Indonesian and Shifa hospitals in the Gaza Strip of Palestine. The isolates were collected from 2020 to 2022 and compared with those from other countries. Chi square test to compare between means. P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The incidences of bloodstream infections as well as the resistance against most antibiotics increased. The exceptions were a decreased incidence of P. aeruginosa infection and a decrease in resistance against ceftazidime. Overall, the incidence and resistance of antimicrobials were higher than other countries.

Conclusion: These results showed increased trends to bacterial resistance except for ceftazidime. A specialist in clinical microbiology should take an active role in prescribing antibiotics in hospitals based on laboratory and epidemiological data besides clinical experience. Also, antibiotic stewardship should be constructed and activated in our country to, as this will decrease the emergence of resistant strains and decrease the burden.