Understanding the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and public health challenges of Acinetobacter baumannii in India and China.

AIMS: Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is a globally recognized notorious pathogen for its high levels of antibiotic resistance, posing severe challenges in healthcare settings, particularly in the most populated countries, India and China. This review compares its epidemiology, resistance patterns, and management strategies in both countries, highlighting its role in healthcare-associated infections and the ongoing challenges in controlling its spread.

METHODS AND RESULTS: A comprehensive review of recent literature was conducted, analyzing studies from both countries to assess the prevalence, resistance trends, and risk factors associated with A. baumannii infections. In India, A. baumannii was found to be responsible for 22.3% of hospital-acquired pneumonia cases, with carbapenem resistance rates exceeding 70%. The emergence of New Delhi Metallo-β-lactamase (NDM)-producing strains has intensified the challenge. Meanwhile, the prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains has risen to 74.7%. In China, A. baumannii accounts for 35.7%-52.7% of hospital-acquired pneumonia cases, with carbapenem resistance rates exceeding 70% and MDR strains reaching up to 63.8%. Both China and other countries have witnessed a rise in extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains, further complicating treatment options and contributing to increased morbidity and mortality rates.

CONCLUSIONS: The review emphasizes how important it is to implement focused treatments, antimicrobial stewardship initiatives, and international cooperation in order to fight A. baumannii.