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A new study in the Democratic Republic of Congo reveals mpox lesions in hospitalized patients frequently contain bacteria with antimicrobial resistance genes, alongside co-infections with other viruses. The findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, underscore the need to consider bacterial adn viral co-infections when treating mpox.
Researchers utilized metagenomic sequencing on swabs from 19 mpox lesions in South Kivu province. Analysis identified bacteria commonly associated with skin and soft tissue infections in 10 of the samples.These bacteria exhibited a high prevalence of genes conferring resistance to antibiotics.
the study also confirmed co-infections with varicella zoster virus and herpes simplex virus-2 using real-time PCR. High-quality whole-genome sequences of the mpox virus (MPXV) were obtained from samples with a Ct value of 27 or lower.
These results suggest that mpox treatment strategies should account for potential co-infections and the possibility of antimicrobial resistance. Determining the case-fatality ratio requires considering these factors, researchers say.
Understanding Mpox and Co-Infections
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that can cause a rash, fever, and other symptoms. While typically self-limiting, severe cases can occur, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. Co-infections, where a person is infected with multiple pathogens concurrently, are increasingly recognized as a notable factor in disease severity and treatment outcomes.
Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global health threat. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to the growth of bacteria that are no longer susceptible to these drugs, making infections harder to treat. Identifying resistance genes in pathogens found in mpox lesions is crucial for guiding appropriate antibiotic use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mpox and Co-Infections
- What is metagenomic sequencing and how was it used in this study?
- Metagenomic sequencing is a technique that allows researchers to identify all the genetic material present in a sample, including viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms. In this study, it was used to characterize the pathogens present in mpox lesions.
- Why is antimicrobial resistance a concern in mpox cases?
- The presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in mpox lesions could complicate treatment if secondary bacterial infections develop. It highlights the need for careful antibiotic stewardship.
- What viruses were identified as co-infections in this study?
- Varicella zoster virus (the cause of chickenpox and shingles) and herpes simplex virus-2 were detected as co-infections alongside mpox.
- How does this research impact mpox treatment protocols?
- This research suggests that clinicians should consider the possibility of bacterial and viral co-infections when managing mpox cases and select antibiotics judiciously.
- What is a Ct value and why is it critically important in this context?
- A Ct value (cycle threshold) is a measure used in PCR testing to quantify the amount of a specific genetic material present in a sample. Lower Ct values indicate a higher viral load.
- Where did this study take place and what region was studied?
- this study was conducted in South Kivu province, a region in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
- What are skin and soft tissue infections and how are they related to mpox?
- Skin and soft tissue infections are bacterial infections affecting the skin and underlying tissues. They were found in a significant number of mpox lesion samples, suggesting a potential for secondary bacterial complications.
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