Meta-analytical review of some studies on antimicrobial resistance of bacteria isolated from animals and environment in Kenya

Objectives: This paper presents a meta-analytical review of research on antimicrobial resistance in animals and environment, with a goal of providing additional data on the current status of AMR in Kenya.Data sources: The data was collected from a desktop search on studies carried out on antimicrobial susceptibility or resistance in Kenya, with respect to bacteria isolated from animals and environment.Study selection: A total of fifteen data sources were consulted. Out of these, 13 specifically covered AMR in bacteria isolated from Kenyan animals and 2 from environment. Studies undertaken included phenotypic and/or genotypic profiling of one or many bacteria against varying combinations of antimicrobials.Data extraction and synthesis: The study involved a meta-analytical review of the data sources; noting the respective antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the isolates.Results: The studies show that most bacterial isolates manifested varying susceptibility profiles to a variety of antimicrobials and were mostly resistant to antimicrobials commonly used in Kenya, and more susceptible to the least commonly used ones. Some studies alluded to the possibility of gene transfer between bacteria. Eleven out of the 13 animal studies (84.6%) and the two studies on environmental isolates indicated presence of multi-drug resistant strains –up-to 7 antimicrobials. Where the antimicrobial combinations were given, the one included most was Sulphamethoxazole at 85.7%; the least was Gentamycin (at 1/14; 7.1%).Conclusion: Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria are common in all types of Kenyan animals and environment. They pose a danger of being transferred to humans and complicate treatment of human bacterial diseases.