GlohMed is pleased to support the study titled “Colonization with multidrug-resistant pathogens in neonates and the risk factors for their acquisition (NeCo study)”, which is being conducted at two hospitals in Bhaktapur district- Siddhi Memorial Hospital and Bhaktapur Hospital. The study team led by Mr. Raj Shrestha, a research microbiologist at Siddhi Memorial Hospital, has been awarded by GlohMed a grant amount of approximately 4,000 USD to implement the study. This study is also partially supported by the ISID/BMGF Research Capacity Building Grant 2023 (USD 7,500) awarded to Mr. Shrestha.
The NeCo study has a target to enroll up to 385 mother-newborn pairs, collecting samples at multiple time points. For mothers, rectovaginal swabs are collected before delivery, while stool samples plus breast swabs are collected before birth, on the day of discharge, 3rd day of discharge, and on weeks 1 through 4. For neonates, stool samples or rectal swabs and body surface swabs (axilla and umbilical) are collected on the day of birth, day of discharge, 3rd day of discharge, and weeks 1 through 4.
Bacterial colonization is considered as a risk factor for developing an infection, including among neonates. This study aims to elucidate risk factors for the acquisition of bacteria in neonates. The findings of the study are anticipated to characterize the features of colonization across multiple time points; before, during and after birth. This study will be supported by the molecular investigations of the bacterial isolates including screening of antimicrobial-resistant genes and genetic similarity.
