Mechanisms of Antimicrobial Resistance in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)

Abstract

Antibiotics are widely employed as a medicinal drug in the treatment of several infectious diseases. Antimicrobial resistance has been linked to high death rates, increasing healthcare economic expenses, and decreased productivity. The chapter aimed to highlight on the current mechanisms and causes of antimicrobial resistance in severe acute respiratory syndrome soronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Antibiotic misuse and other social influences are major contributors to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Investigations revealed that healthcare systems are using antibiotics to treat all SARS-CoV-2 infections, even if the symptoms are mild, despite the fact that only 10% to 15% of infected SARS-CoV-2 cases had secondary bacterial infection. Furthermore, overburdened healthcare systems, lack of proper infection control measures, and increased production of personal protective equipment (PPE) all are exacerbating the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Emerging genetic variants of COVID-19 showed to diminish the efficacy of different COVID-19 vaccines, indicating the need for periodical vaccination boosters. Antibiotic stewardship should be promoted in health care facilities with proper flexibility when need.