Protocol for surveillance of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria causing community-acquired urinary tract infections in low-income countries

Drug-resistant bacteria are a growing threat in low-middle-income countries, where community-acquired infections are often treated without adequate data to support antibiotic use. A protocol for monitoring antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in these communities uses urinary tract infection (UTI) as a proxy for community-acquired infection. The protocol aims to design a sustainable surveillance program for AMR in communities involving children and adults. It requires laboratory preparation, surveillance areas, priority bacteria and antimicrobials selection, and a coordinated sampling plan. The data generated will be shared internally and externally.