Increasing Antibiotic Resistance in Shigella Bacteria in the United States

Authors

William J. Pharr, Georgia College and State UniversityFollow

Faculty Mentors

Andrei Barkovskii, Professor

Ph.D., Microbiology, SSR Supreme Cert. Comm.

Abstract

Shigella bacteria cause half a million infections, 6,000 hospitalizations, and 70 deaths annually in the United States. These bacteria are of particular concern due to their high survivability, low infectious dose, and high adaptability. Cases of shigellosis from Shigella sonnei are becoming a more prevalent issue in the U.S. as the bacteria continues to develop higher resistance to today’s strongest antibiotics. Much of this resistance is connected to the exchange of genes between strains of Shigella due to insertion sequences (IS), intercontinental travel, and men who have sex with men (MSM). As a result of increased resistance, the use of antibiotic treatment may need to be replaced. New treatment methods are being researched to better treat/prevent Shigella infections.

Recommended Citation

Pharr, William J. (2020) "Increasing Antibiotic Resistance in Shigella Bacteria in the United States," The Corinthian: Vol. 20, Article 10.
Available at: https://kb.gcsu.edu/thecorinthian/vol20/iss1/10