Prevalence of polymyxin-resistant bacterial strains in India: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Polymyxins, cationic lipopeptide antibiotics, are used against Gram-negative bacterial (GNB) pathogens. However, the rise of polymyxin-resistant strains has impacted their utility. A study conducted in India found that 15.0% of PolR bacteria were present, with Tamil Nadu having the highest prevalence at 28.3%. 8.4% of PolR strains carried mcr genes. This study provides insight into the PolR situation in India, which could help develop a monitoring strategy to contain the spread of such strains and preserve the efficacy of polymyxins. The findings could help develop a monitoring strategy to contain the spread of PolR.