Review and mapping of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in Africa: Using diverse data to inform surveillance gaps

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are among the most difficult to treat emerging multidrug-resistant organisms. Major limitations exist in surveillance needed to address CRE, particularly in areas with inadequate resources. We utilised optimised strategies to search for data on carbapenem susceptibility of Klebsiella spp. and Escherichia coli from the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa Region. Core data elements were extracted for meta-analysis and mapping. Despite sparse data in existing reviews, 180 documents including 314 reports on susceptibility of E. coli and/or Klebsiella were located, providing information on 31 (66%) of 47 nations. Carbapenem-resistant E. coli or Klebsiella were identified in 22 (71%) of these 31 countries. Crude resistance proportions were estimated for nations with >100 representative isolates. Median resistance among E. coli was <1% in 11 (61%) of 18 nations meeting criteria, 1-5% in 6 nations (33%) and >5% in 1 nation (6%). For Klebsiella spp., corresponding figures were <1% in 10 (67%) of 15 nations, 1-5% in 3 nations (20%) and >5% in 2 nations (13%). Comprehensive, customised search strategies with analysis and mapping of defined data elements provide an enhanced view of carbapenem-resistant E. coli and Klebsiella in Africa. These CRE are widely distributed and are generally present at low to moderate levels. Whilst use of diverse and largely clinically derived data has limitations and cannot substitute for surveillance, it can enhance situational awareness. The approaches utilised can support improved risk understanding and prioritisation and may be applied to other micro-organisms and areas where surveillance remains inadequate.