LATEBREAKER
Infectious Disease
Antimicrobial Resistant Nontyphoidal Salmonella Infections Among the US Pediatric Population: 2004-2021 Secondary Data Analysis Nhi Tran* Nhi Tran
Background: Nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) poses a significant public health burden in the US, causing an estimated 1.2 million annual infections. Children are disproportionately affected, with infants and young children vulnerable due to immature immune systems. This study investigates longitudinal trends in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among pediatric NTS isolates obtained from the CDC’s National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS).
Methods: We analyzed NARMS data spanning 2004-2021, focusing on NTS isolates from children aged 0-19. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and logistic regression were employed to examine AMR patterns, associations with patient characteristics (age, region), serotypes, and changes over time. Isolates demonstrating resistance to at least one antimicrobial agent were of primary interest.
Results: Children aged 0-4 consistently comprised the majority of NTS cases (62.7% in 2004-2012, 65.4% in 2013-2021). Resistance to ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, ceftriaxone, and chloramphenicol significantly decreased between the two time periods (e.g., ampicillin: 0.1 to 0.09, p=0.005). Nalidixic acid resistance doubled (0.02 to 0.04, p<0.001). Logistic regression revealed factors such as later time period (2013-2021), specimen source, age group, serotype, and region significantly influenced AMR likelihood.
Conclusion: This study highlights the trend of AMR in pediatric NTS infections in the US. While progress has been made in combating resistance to certain antibiotics, emerging resistance patterns underscore the continued threat of AMR. A multi-faceted approach encompassing antibiotic stewardship, infection control, and tailored interventions remains essential to safeguard children’s health.