Genetic Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant Isolates from Bloodstream Infections in Lithuania.

Extraintestinal pathogenic (ExPEC) isolates are a main cause of bloodstream infections. The aim of this study was to characterize 256 β-lactam-resistant, bacteremia-causing isolates collected from 12 healthcare institutions in Lithuania in 2014 and 2018. All isolates were identified as via MALDI-TOF MS and VITEK 2.

National multi-stakeholder meetings: a tool to support development of integrated policies and practices for testing and prevention of HIV, viral hepatitis, TB and STIs.

Background: Country level policies and practices of testing and care for HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections are lagging behind European recommendations on integration across diseases. Building on previous experiences and evidence, the INTEGRATE Joint Action arranged four national stakeholder meetings. The aim was to foster cross-disciplinary and cross-disease collaborations at national level as a vehicle for strengthened integration of testing and care services.

Multidrug-Resistant Genetic Characterization and Spread in Lithuania in 2014, 2016, and 2018.

Bacterial resistance to antimicrobial agents plays an important role in the treatment of bacterial infections in healthcare institutions. The spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria can occur during inter- and intra-hospital transmissions among patients and hospital personnel. For this reason, more studies must be conducted to understand how resistance occurs in bacteria and how it moves between hospitals by comparing data from different years and looking out for any patterns that might emerge.