Virulence and Resistance of Staphylococcus ssp. and Streptococcus spp. Strains Isolated from Suppurations at Chud-Ba (Benin)

Background and Objective: Wound infections can cause delayed healing, leading to multiple healthcare facility visits and extended hospital stays. This study aims to identify the virulence and antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria isolated from suppuration at the Departmental University Hospital of Borgou-Alibori (CHUD-BA). Materials and Methods: This report was a cross-sectional study with an analytical aim. The study was spread from June, 2021 to February, 2022, including participants admitted to the CHUD-BA. The bacteria’ isolation, identification, and antibiogram were carried out by standard microbiological techniques followed by molecular characterization in the search for virulence genes. A total of 107 cases of suppuration were collected. GraphPad Prism 8 identified significant differences between means (p<0.05). Results: Gram-positive bacteria dominate suppurative infections at 51.8%. Key bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus (69.64%), Streptococcus spp. (23.21%), and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (7.14%). Most isolated strains showed antibiotic resistance, with 55.4% of Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. being biofilm-forming. The mecA gene was found in 17.9% of S. aureus strains, while 43.6% contained the cna gene. Suppuration is common in hospital and community settings, with Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. as the primary pathogens. Conclusion: Antibiotic resistance, which has become a real public health problem, can complicate the treatment of suppuration, hence the importance of rationalizing the use of antibiotics. Therefore, it is concluded that wound healing is predicated on good hygiene, proper wound infection care, and effective antimicrobial drugs.