Comprehensive analysis of antimicrobial resistance in the Southwest Indian Ocean: focus on WHO critical and high priority pathogens

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern, particularly in the Southwest Indian Ocean (SWIO) islands. These islands, strategically located between Southern Africa and the Indian subcontinent, are constantly threatened by the importation of multidrug-resistant bacteria. A systematic review aimed to assess the epidemiological situation of AMR in humans in SWIO islands, focusing on priority bacterial species like Enterobacterales, Acinetobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Enterococcus spp. The study found growing interest in investigating these pathogens and evidence of their active circulation. However, data availability disparities were identified, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration to establish an efficient regional surveillance network.