Newborns found to have antibiotic resistance within first few hours of life: study

Recent studies have revealed findings in newborns showing that antibiotic resistance genes (AGRs) can be present in babies within just a few hours after birth.  

Scientists previously believed newborn gut microbiomes were nearly sterile, with bacteria mainly entering during birth or breastfeeding. However, new evidence challenges this understanding, according to research presented to the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Global this year.

Researchers examined stool samples from 105 infants in neonatal intensive care within 72 hours of birth to capture early microbial exposure. AGRs are segments of DNA that help bacteria survive the effects of antibiotics, and were discovered in newborns, potentially allowing bacteria to evade treatment, which could impact the newborns' long-term health. 

The findings from the study suggest that newborn gut microbiomes may be exposed to bacteria during pregnancy through maternal and environmental factors. Scientists also found various genes associated with resistance to commonly used antibiotics.

"This finding suggests that a pattern of ARGs is already established at this stage," lead author Dr. Argyro Ftergioti said in a press release.

"The neonatal gut harbors a diverse resistome, and the presence of clinically important ARGs so early in life is concerning," he said. The study identified links between resistance genes and maternal hospitalization during pregnancy or central venous catheter placement within the first 24 hours after birth.

"Although some ARGs were expected, their high prevalence across the majority of samples was striking," Ftergioti added.

While gut bacteria are crucial for developing immune, digestive, and nervous systems, healthy microbiomes protect against infections, allergies, and chronic diseases like asthma, ADHD, and diabetes.

"While further research is needed to understand how early carriage of resistance genes affects microbiome development and infection risk, these findings highlight the importance of surveillance, infection prevention and control in neonatal care," Ftergioti said.