Predominance of multidrug-resistant bacteria causing urinary tract infections among symptomatic patients in East Africa: a call for action

This study investigates antibiotic susceptibility in low- and middle-income countries, focusing on urinary tract infections (UTIs) without microbiological confirmation. The research found that inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the selection of MDR bacteria. The study found that MDR bacteria were common in UTI-like symptoms in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The predominant bacteria were Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., and Enterococcus spp. The study highlights the need for investment in laboratory culture capacity and diagnostic algorithms to improve diagnosis accuracy and prevent AMR.