Global high-risk clones and multidrug-resistant serotype strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from surgical site infections in low-resource settings

Abstract

Surgical site infections (SSIs) caused by multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa are a major challenge to patient care, particularly in low-resource settings. This study reveals extensive genomic diversity, antimicrobial resistance, and virulence profiles among P. aeruginosa isolates from SSIs in Ghanaian hospitals. The detection of globally recognized high-risk clones ST235, ST308, and ST773, alongside several novel sequence types, suggests ongoing genomic evolution and the potential for regional dissemination. The presence of resistance to last-line antibiotics and key virulence factors highlights the therapeutic and public health challenges in low and middle-income countries. These findings underscore the urgent need for genomic surveillance, strengthened infection prevention and control, and targeted antimicrobial stewardship programs to inform treatment strategies and health policies across Ghana and the broader African region.