Antibiotic Susceptibility and Risk Factors for Listeriosis in Women with Spontaneous Abortion in Ugandan Tertiary Hospitals: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Listeriosis, caused by Listeria monocytogenes, poses significant health risks globally, particularly among pregnant women. Despite its established impact in other regions, its prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility patterns in Uganda, especially among women experiencing spontaneous abortion, remain understudied. Objective This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility, and associated risk factors of listeriosis among women admitted with spontaneous abortion in Ugandan tertiary hospitals. Methods A total of 384 women from Jinja and Kayunga Regional Referral Hospitals were included. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric history, and dietary habits were collected using structured interviews and high vaginal swab cultures. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed, and logistic regression analysis was used to assess risk factors. Results The prevalence of listeriosis among participants was 11.2%. L. monocytogenes showed high susceptibility to Vancomycin (88.37%) and Clindamycin (81.40%), but significant resistance to Ampicillin (81.40%) and Amoxicillin (76.74%). Risk factors significantly associated with listeriosis included lack of formal education (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 7.0, 95% CI: 1.779–27.655), multiple abortions (aOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.486–7.427), and consumption of soft cheese, ice cream, yogurt, or ghee (aOR = 4.3, 95% CI: 1.331–14.082). Conclusion This study provides critical insights into the prevalence, antibiotic resistance patterns, and risk factors for listeriosis among Ugandan women with spontaneous abortion. Findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions and antibiotic stewardship to mitigate the impact of this infection.