In a recent presentation at the College of Act at Penn State, Dr. Nkuchia Mikanatha shed light on the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) from a human perspective. Funded by state agencies, the FDA, CDC, and Penn State, Dr. Nkuchia Mikanatha emphasized the importance of approaching AMR research with a collaborative mindset, while also highlighting the need for scientific responsibility in expressing views.
AMR presents a significant challenge in the United States, with 2.8 million infections occurring annually. Salmonella alone accounts for over 16 cases per 100,000 individuals, showcasing the profound impact of AMR on public health. To delve deeper into this issue, Dr. Nkuchia Mikanatha discussed ongoing research aimed at understanding the implications of AMR, particularly focusing on salmonella infections.
One of the key questions raised pertained to the discrepancy between clinical guidelines and the actual impact of AMR on salmonella infections. While national agencies typically classify salmonella as causing mild infections, the extent of AMR's influence remains unclear. To address this gap, collaborative efforts involving clinicians, microbiologists, and public health experts were initiated to conduct a comprehensive study.
The study, conducted prospectively, involved analyzing isolates submitted to the Department of Health and collecting treatment records for affected patients. This meticulous process required approval from institutional review boards (IRBs) and adherence to data use agreements. Information such as demographic characteristics, medical history, diagnosis, antibiotic treatment, and infection severity was meticulously recorded and analyzed.
Results indicated 79% of patients required changes in antibiotic regimen post-diagnosis. Alarmingly, 21% of patients did not have their antibiotics adjusted based on susceptibility results, highlighting the need for improved antimicrobial stewardship. Furthermore, the characterization of salmonella isolates revealed varying levels of drug resistance, underscoring the complexity of AMR. In addition they found close to 10% of the salmonella cases were resistant to antibiotics.
Dr. Nkuchia Mikanatha emphasized the importance of collaborative research efforts in understanding AMR comprehensively. Beyond examining treatment patterns, research endeavors also explore the interplay between human and animal health, adopting a One Health approach. By comparing sequences from human and animal isolates, researchers aim to identify potential transmission pathways and mitigate the spread of AMR.
In conclusion, Dr. Nkuchia Mikanatha's presentation offered valuable insights into the human dimensions of AMR and the critical role of collaborative research in addressing this global health threat. By leveraging interdisciplinary expertise and adopting a multifaceted approach, researchers strive to develop effective strategies to combat AMR and safeguard public health for generations to come.
Learn more by watching the full presentationas featured in the March Member Spotlight.