Centre Asks Rajasthan to Strengthen Infection Control in Hospitals Amid Antibiotic Resistance Concerns

The Union government has asked the Rajasthan government to tighten infection prevention and control measures in hospitals following concerns about rising antibiotic resistance in certain bacterial infections.

The advisory was issued after findings from a study conducted at SMS Medical College in Jaipur indicated a high level of resistance in Acinetobacter bacteria to several commonly used antibiotics. The bacteria is known to cause serious infections, particularly in intensive care units and among patients with weakened immunity.

Health authorities at the Centre have urged the state to enforce stricter hygiene practices in medical facilities. These include adherence to hand hygiene protocols, proper sterilisation of medical equipment and improved biomedical waste management. Hospitals have also been advised to ensure regular training of healthcare staff on infection prevention standards.

Officials said special attention must be given to high risk areas such as intensive care units, labour rooms and dialysis centres where hospital acquired infections are more likely to occur.

The Centre has emphasised that stronger surveillance and stricter infection control systems are necessary to limit the spread of drug resistant bacteria and protect patient safety in healthcare settings.