Publication:

Etiology of nosocomial infections in two general referral hospitals: CBCA-Virunga and Charité Maternelle de Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo

Background Nosocomial infections are a major cause of hospital morbidity and mortality. They usually occur during or after medical care. This study aims to identify the main etiologies of nosocomial infections in two general referral hospitals in Goma.

Methods We conducted a microbiological study, of which 350 samples were analyzed in patients hospitalized for more than 48 hours with signs suggestive of IN these two hospitals, from February 15 to June 24, 2025. Data were collected using a standardized survey questionnaire. To identify the microorganisms involved, the biological parameters from blood culture and cytobacteriological examinations of urine and secretions taken from the surgical sites were carried out in two public health laboratories in Goma, namely Ami-Labo and La Reference.

Results Among the 350 samples analyzed, 106 germs were isolated, including 98 bacteria and 8 yeasts. The main microorganisms identified were E. coli, S. typhi, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, A. baumannii and C. albicans. UTIs were the most common, followed by respiratory infections and surgical site infections. These isolated bacteria showed multi-resistance to commonly used antibiotics.

Conclusions The analysis of the germs responsible for these infections revealed six main types of bacterial germs and one type of fungal germ. These bacteria are most often multi-resistant to common antibiotics.