Scientists have identified a highly antibiotic-resistant and deadly species of “Acinetobacter baumannii.” Experts have emphasized that this bacterium poses a serious threat to public health.

In a hospital in the city of Terengganu, Malaysia, a highly antibiotic-resistant and deadly species of “Acinetobacter baumannii” was discovered.

The scientists announced that this bacterium belongs to the globally prevalent “GC2” lineage and poses a threat to public health. Researchers examined 126 bacterial samples collected in the region between 2011 and 2020.

The results revealed that the bacterium had developed resistance to numerous antibiotics.

Particularly high levels of resistance were observed against carbapenem antibiotics, often the first choice for A. Baumannii infections.

An international research team noted that within the samples they studied, plasmid DNAs responsible for spreading antibiotic resistance were present in 97%.

“CONTINUES TO SPREAD IN HOSPITALS” Dr. David Cleary, one of the co-authors of the study from the University of Birmingham, stated, “We have obtained new evidence that this dangerous A. baumannii family continues to spread in hospitals. However, data from low- and middle-income countries is very inadequate. Understanding the evolution of the disease, preventing its spread, and developing effective treatments are critical.” To combat antibiotic resistance, Cleary emphasized the need for more effective monitoring systems and new treatment protocols in these countries, stating, “The dominance of the GC2 lineage and the high level of carbapenem resistance pose a serious threat to public health.” Professor Chew Chieng Yeo from Sultan Zainal Abidin University in Malaysia, the lead author of the study, commented, “Our study demonstrates how crucial international research collaboration is in combating the spread of bacteria with multidrug resistance. This collaboration becomes even more critical, especially in regions where data is scarce.”