Dossier n. 173/2009 [Abstract] Surveillance of antimicrobial resistance and consumption of systemic antibiotics in Emilia-Romagna. Report 2007

This report includes data obtained through the regional system for surveillance of antimicrobial resistance of Emilia-Romagna and the regional databases of drug prescriptions at community (AFT) and hospital (AFO) level. Analyses refer to the 2003-2007 time period.

Surveillance of antimicrobial resistance

A significant increase of antimicrobial resistance prevalences are observed for Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae with an epidemic temporal trend of infections caused by these organisms. The high rates of resistance, previously detected for most other pathogens, are also confirmed.

Consumption of systemic antibiotics

Data on consumptions show an heavy exposure of regional population to systemic antibiotics. Rates are higher in extreme age groups (0-6 years and ≥80 years). Penicillins associated to betalactamase inhibitors are the most used agents both in community and hospital settings and with fluoroquinolones registered the biggest increase of prescription in the considered time period.

Conclusion

The increasing spread of antimicrobial resistance attests the need of changing the prescriptions practices in the region.