An electronic network for the surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial nosocomial isolates in Greece

The present article reports an evaluation of the national electronic networ k for the continuous monitoring of antimicrobial resistance in Greece. The network employs a common electronic code and data format and uses WHONET so ftware. Our four years' experience with the network confirms its practicali ty. A total of 22 hospitals in Greece are currently using the software, of which 19 participate in the network. Analysis of the information obtained h as greatly helped in identifying the main factors responsible for the emerg ence of antimicrobial resistance in the participating hospitals. The data c ollected have also helped to identify priorities for further investigation of the genetic and molecular mechanisms responsible for the emergence of re sistance and facilitated development of hospital-based empirical therapy of infections. In conclusion, the implementation of national networks for the surveillance of antimicrobial resistance should be regarded as a priority.