By : Lloyd Mahachi
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to a significant increase in the spread of dangerous drug-resistant bacteria. This alarming trend has raised concerns among medical professionals and experts, who warn that the situation could have devastating consequences.
Pte Oleksander Bezverkhny, a 27-year-old soldier, is a testament to the severity of the issue. He was evacuated to the Feofaniya Hospital in Kyiv with severe abdominal injuries and shrapnel wounds. Despite the efforts of medical staff, both his legs were amputated, and he contracted sepsis five times. The infections were resistant to commonly used antibiotics, making his treatment a daunting task.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria evolve and develop defenses against antibiotics and other medicines, rendering them ineffective. This issue is not unique to Ukraine, as around 1.4 million people globally died from AMR infections in 2021. In the UK, there were 66,730 serious antibiotic-resistant infections reported in 2023.
However, the conflict in Ukraine has accelerated the spread of multi-resistant pathogens. Clinics treating war injuries have registered a sharp increase in AMR cases. At the Feofaniya Hospital, more than 80% of patients admitted have infections caused by microbes resistant to antibiotics, according to deputy chief physician Dr. Andriy Strokan.
Ironically, antimicrobial-resistant infections often originate from medical facilities. Medical staff strive to follow strict hygiene protocols and use protective equipment to minimize the spread of these infections. However, facilities can be overwhelmed with patients injured in the war, making it challenging to maintain adequate hygiene standards.
Dr. Volodymyr Dubyna, the head of the Mechnikov Hospital’s ICU, noted that since the start of the Russian invasion, his unit has increased the number of beds from 16 to 50. Meanwhile, staffing levels are down, as many employees have fled the war or joined the military. This shortage of staff can exacerbate the spread of AMR bacteria.
Dr. Strokan explained that the current circumstances can contribute to the spread of AMR bacteria. “In surgical departments, there is often only one nurse responsible for 15-20 patients,” he said. “She physically cannot scrub up her hands in the required amount and frequency to prevent the spread of infections.”
The situation in Ukraine highlights the need for urgent action to address the spread of drug-resistant bacteria. Medical professionals, experts, and policymakers must work together to develop effective strategies to combat AMR and ensure that patients receive adequate treatment.
In addition, it is essential to address the root causes of the issue, including the conflict and the resulting humanitarian crisis. By providing adequate support and resources to medical facilities and staff, it is possible to mitigate the spread of AMR bacteria and improve patient outcomes.
The spread of drug-resistant bacteria in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and the importance of prioritizing healthcare and humanitarian needs.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
