Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Extended Spectrum Beta‐Lactamase‐Producing Clinical Isolates of <i>Escherichia coli</i> and <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> in Two Kenyan Facilities: A National Referral and a Level Five Hospital

Abstract

The high proportion of ESBL-producing <i>E. coli</i> and <i>K. pneumoniae</i> isolates increases the utilization of last-resort antibiotics, jeopardizing antimicrobial chemotherapy. Furthermore, the antimicrobial resistance patterns exhibited towards extended-spectrum cephalosporins, beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations, fluoroquinolones, and macrolides show the risk of co-resistance associated with ESBL-producing isolates responsible for MDR. Hence, there is a need for regular surveillance and implementation of infection prevention and control strategies and antimicrobial stewardship programs.