Agencies
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Agencies | Published : March 21, 2014 11:55 AM IST
More kids in the US are developing infections caused by a concerning type of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that is on the rise, an alarming study has claimed. Still uncommon, the bacteria are increasingly found in children of all ages, especially those one-five years old, raising concerns about dwindling treatment options.
'These antibiotic-resistant bacteria have traditionally been found in health care settings but are increasingly being found in the community, in people who have not had a significant history of health care exposure,' explained Latania K. Logan of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. Researchers analysed resistance patterns in approximately 370,000 clinical isolates from pediatric patients - collected nationwide between 1999 and 2011. (Read: How do bacteria get 'resistant' to antibiotics?)
They determined the prevalence of a resistant type of Gram-negative bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, that produces a key enzyme - extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL). The enzyme thwarts many strong antibiotics. Another indicator of ESBL prevalence, susceptibility to third-generation cephalosporins - an important class of antibiotics used to treat many infections - was also measured. ESBLs were found in children across the country of all ages, but slightly more than half of the isolates with this resistance were from those one-five years old. (Read: New antibiotic holds promise against deadly bacteria)
Nearly three-quarters (74.4 percent) of these bacteria were resistant to multiple classes of antibiotics. ESBL-producing bacteria can spread rapidly and have been linked to longer hospital stays, higher health care costs and increased mortality, the study noted. In a 2013 report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has called ESBLs a 'serious concern' and a significant threat to public health. Additional drug development, keeping younger patients in mind, is needed, said the study published in the Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. (Read: Antibiotic smart bomb that only kills 'bad' bacteria)
Source: IANS
For more articles on diseases & conditions , visit our diseases & conditions section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And to join discussions on health topics of your choice, visit our forum.
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.