Molecular Epidemiological Surveillance of Carbapenem-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria in Southern Lebanon.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (CR-GNB) are rapidly spreading pathogens that increase morbidity and mortality in hospital settings and significantly restrict available treatment options worldwide. The lack of molecular epidemiological data and the limited use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in South Lebanon have hindered comprehensive surveillance efforts. This study represents the first molecular characterization of CR-GNB in this region. Methods: A total of 477 clinical Gram-negative bacterial isolates were collected from intensive care unit (ICU) patients admitted to various hospitals in South Lebanon in 2023. Of these, 131 CR-GNB were subjected to whole-genome sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq platform. K-mer-based species identification,

SUBMITTER: Al Souheil A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12649687 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature