Challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance in developing countries

Despite significant advances in our understanding and knowledge of the path ogenesis, prevention and control of hospital infections, antibiotic-resista nt infections are still a significant cause of morbidity and mortality thro ughout South Africa and developing countries. Sound infection control progr ammes are crucial in our attempts to reduce the incidence and cost of nosoc omial infections and to control the emergence and the spread of multiply dr ug-resistant organisms. Education, development of antibiotic formularies an d treatment guidelines, surveillance and ongoing research in the field of a ntimicrobial resistance are of critical importance in the fight against mul tiply drug-resistant pathogens.