Recommendation 14

Dr Partridge told us that there is also an increasing threat in the UK from strains of pathogens which cause Gram-negative infections that are more likely to be resistant and more likely to result in the death of the patient. In particular, there has been an increase in Gram-negative pathogens which produce specific types of enzymes which are associated with higher mortality.36 Dr Partridge told us this shift will cause great difficulties for the NHS, given that there are even fewer treatment options.37 30 Q 36; C&AG’s Report, para 11 31 C&AG’s Report, para 3.4 32 Qq 37, 78 33 Qq 21, 77; C&AG’s Report, para 17 34 Q 21 35 Q 77 36 Evidence shows there have been increases in carbapenemase-producing Gram- negative organisms. This refers to a type of organism which produces enzymes called carbapenemase, which can destroy antibiotics called carapenems. A specific type of cabarpenemase-producing Gram-negative organism is one which produces an enzyme called metallo-beta-lactamase, and this type of organism is associated with higher mortality. See Q 1; UKHSA, English surveillance programme for antimicrobial utilisation and resistance 2023–24, October 2014 37 Q 1 12