Keywords:
Antimicrobial resistance – Gram-negative bacilli — ß-lactamases – ESBL – AmpC – OXA – Co- producers — CRE – MBL – Control measures

ABSTRACT

While Gram-positive superbugsrule the Western world, multi-drug resistant Gram-negative superbugs rage in Indian hospitals and community. Although many Gram- negative bacilli (GNB) are intrinsically resistant to different antibiotics, acquired resistance that rapidly spreads, is the order of the day. ß-lactamase production is the commonest mechanism encountered, namely, production of ESBL’s, Amp C ß-lactamases, OXA’s and Carbapenemases. Many GNB are co-producing different ß-lactamases. Presently, carbapenem resistance is a major problem in both non-fermenting GNB and Enterobacteriaceae. Resistance to polymixins, the probable last resort, is also emerging. Emphasis on infection control measures, hand hygiene and rational use of antibiotics are the important strategies to combat this raging menace.