Insights into global antimicrobial resistance dynamics through the sequencing of enteric bacteria from U.S. international travelers

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant public health threat, but surveillance gaps hinder its detection. International travelers often acquire AMR organisms, providing insight into AMR dynamics in poorly monitored regions. A study of 307 AMR organisms from 608 travelers revealed phylogenetic diversity, but resistance genes varied by region. Contact with animals was associated with virulence factors in AMR organisms. Novel variants of the gene were identified in strains acquired from Western Africa, suggesting the potential for traveler surveillance to detect emerging clinical threats.