The changing epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance in Fiji: a descriptive analysis of antimicrobial susceptibility and trends of endemic and emerging pathogens, 2019–2022

This study aimed to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of bacterial isolates from clinical samples at Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Fiji. The study reviewed data from 2019 to 2022, finding that 62% of the 29,222 isolates were Gram-negative bacteria, with K. pneumoniae being the most common. Extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) production increased among K. pneumoniae and E. coli, while carbapenem-resistant isolates were identified. The study highlighted the high rate of methicillin resistance (MDR) among Gram-negative bacteria, particularly ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae and E. coli, and carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii. The rapid spread of carbapenemase-producing E. coli is a concern.