Antibiotic resistance rising in the Netherlands, experts warn

The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is increasing in the Netherlands, making it harder to treat infections effectively, according to a new report by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).

These so-called “highly resistant bacteria” are particularly difficult to combat when patients fall ill. The RIVM warns that some strains have developed resistance to even the strongest antibiotics, which are typically used as a last resort.

Limited antibiotic use in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has long maintained one of the lowest rates of antibiotic use in Europe. Dutch medical professionals are known for their cautious approach, prescribing antibiotics sparingly to reduce the risk of bacteria developing resistance.

Despite this, resistant bacteria are becoming more common. “Many of these bacteria are found in patients who have recently been hospitalized abroad,” said the RIVM.

Resistance in common and critical bacteria

The report highlights several concerning trends. A group of streptococcal bacteria has shown increasing resistance to doxycycline and tetracycline. These antibiotics are frequently used in hospital settings, and the reduced effectiveness is attributed to their widespread application.

The bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, which can cause severe infections, has developed resistance to meropenem, a last-resort antibiotic. Meropenem is only used when other antibiotics fail, making this development particularly alarming.

Global factors driving resistance

Experts point to several factors driving the rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including increased international travel and overuse of antibiotics in some countries. Misuse in hospital settings, especially abroad, allows bacteria to evolve defenses against common treatments.

The findings suggest that resistant bacteria are more likely to emerge in environments where antibiotics are heavily relied upon. “The more frequently antibiotics are administered, the faster bacteria learn to fend off these treatments,” the report notes.