New front opens in battle with bacteria

DUBAI // Studies are needed to examine drug-resistant bacteria in this country, say experts.

While some of the outbreaks are caused by bacteria from patients who were hospitalised overseas, many strains of bacteria are indigenous.

Dr Tibor Pal, professor of microbiology at the UAE University in Al Ain, said a programme to monitor antibiotic use would limit strains of infection.

He said: “According to international and local studies, the majority of drug resistant bacteria are contracted in hospitals.

“We urgently need to research these strains as these studies could help us to focus on the local situation.”

He said many screening strategies were developed in countries with demographics unlike the UAE. “Therefore, countries, and even hospitals, differ in their adapted screening strategies, and even in whether they screen for these pathogens or not,” said Dr Pal.

At present, the screening methods are expensive and treatment could be even more so, he said.

Dr Agnes Sonnevend-Pal, an associate professor at UAE University, believed better infection control measures and stricter use of antibiotics could “potentially help combat the issue of drug resistance in the UAE”.

“If these measures are implemented properly, they may control the transmission of such organisms,” she said.

Both doctors will both be speaking at the Patient Safety Middle East Exhibition and Conference, which takes place in Dubai in October.

There, delegates will discuss the latest updates in health care associated infections, including monitoring, protocols, and hand hygiene practices.

newsdesk@thenational.ae