Infectious diseases have always posed a serious risk to both human and animal health and are a main factor contributing to morbidity and mortality. The rapid rise of multi-drug resistant, extensive, and pan-drug resistant bacteria, has led to the global problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The emergence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria has been documented as a possible threat to public health worldwide, especially in developing nations. These superbugs cause difficulty in preventing and treating infections with existing antimicrobial agents, and whilst AMR is present globally, it has been said that Southeast Asia (SEA) is particularly vulnerable to infectious illnesses and AMR.

In addition, antimicrobials have long been added to animal feed to preserve health and increase livestock productivity as growth promoters. However, rampant overuse of these antimicrobials in both humans and animals has been shown to result in increased antibacterial resistance. The irrational use of antibiotics in animals and humans thus has a significant impact on the emergence of resistant microbes and their spread. Conversely, rational use of antibiotics can minimize the risk of resistance, thereby helping to prolong the lifespan of antimicrobials.

It is critical to evaluate the major determinants of antibiotic resistance, in order to find efficient strategies to reduce it. It is challenging to determine the extent of antibiotic resistance due to inadequate surveillance methods and a scarcity of data, particularly in the South-East region of Asia. The lack of reports on AMR in veterinary settings is also critical in evaluating the use of antimicrobials in such settings, as one of the contributing factors of antibiotic resistance. This Research Topic will emphasize the possible steps required to combat the challenge of AMR, and the facts presented by authors will assist policymakers in adopting a strategy to prevent AMR.

In order to better comprehend AMR in South-East Asia, it is now essential to establish interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches that will incorporate knowledge on etiology and epidemiology, diagnostic and therapeutic breakthroughs, as well as advancements in disease prevention and public health responses.

We therefore welcome the submission of original research, reviews, systematic reviews, and brief reports on the following subthemes:

• Multidrug resistance (MDR) in clinical settings
• Rational antibiotic use in the community
• Environmental factors precipitating AMR
• Molecular mechanisms of acquired resistance
• Pharmacoeconomic aspects of antibiotic use
• Epidemiology and impacts of bacterial infections
• Rational antibiotic use in animals
• Multidrug resistance (MDR) in veterinarian settings

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Frontiers in Tropical Diseases

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