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Mfeukeu-Kuate, L., Ngatchou, W.D., Temgoua, M.N., Kouanfack, C., Lemoungoum, D., Tochie, J.N., Zemsi, A., Fomete, L., Lekelem, S., Zemsi, S., Sobngwi, J., Ntandzi, T., Ouankou, C.N., Wasnyo, Y., Assiga, A.T., Nkeck, J.R., Jingi, A.M., Guewo, M., Yone, E.W.P., Omgba, C.M., Etoundi, P.O., Yombi, J.C., Kingue, S., Menanga, A., Ze Minkande, J., Zogo, P.O., Mbanya, J.C., Fouda, P.J. and Sobngwi, E. (2021) Electrocardiographic Safety of Daily Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg Plus Azithromycin 250 mg as an Ambulatory Treatment for COVID-19 Patients in Cameroon. World Journal of Cardiovascular Diseases, 11, 106-112.

has been cited by the following article:

• TITLE: Could the Increased Consumption of Azithromycin during the COVID-19 Pandemic Have Affected the Sensitivity of Bacteria of Aquatic Environment to This Antibiotic?

  AUTHORS: Ntsama Essomba Claudine, Tombedi Marie Christine, Ambada Ndzengue Georgia Elna, Eteme Enama Serge, Leme Banock Lucie, Avomo Jeanne, Bilong Bilong Charles Félix

  KEYWORDS: COVID-19, Azithromycin, Aquatic Bacteria, Antibiotic Resistance, Yaoundé, Rivers

  JOURNAL NAME: Advances in Infectious Diseases, Vol.14 No.4, October 15, 2024

  ABSTRACT: The increased consumption of azithromycin during the COVID-19 pandemic may have led to its presence in the waterways. This study aims to evaluate the effect of this situation on aquatic bacteria. Methodology: Over a four-month period following the official recognition of the COVID-19 outbreak in Yaoundé, water samples were collected from four rivers selected on the basis of their vicinity to care centers for COVID-19. Bacteria within azithromycin’s spectrum of activity were isolated, and the antibiotic’s efficacy was tested against the most frequently isolated species. The influence of COVID-19 incidence and other external factors was also assessed. Results: The most frequently isolated bacteria were Bacillus spp., Enterococcus spp., Listeria spp. and Staphylococcus epidermidis. These strains exhibited varying levels of sensitivity to azithromycin, ranging from 0% to 100%. The observed resistance rates were 12.5%, 14.29%, 16.67%, and 0%, respectively. Neither COVID-19 incidence, proximity to hospitals, nor rainfall significantly influenced bacterial resistance rates to azithromycin (P > 0.05). These resistance levels may be attributed to the relatively short exposure of bacteria to azithromycin at the sampled locations, as well as the impact of agricultural and livestock-related chemicals, such as biocides and antibiotics, present in the watershed. Conclusion: These results highlight the need to integrate into anti-COVID-19 activities, the monitoring of bacteria’s sensitivity in aquatic environments.