Diminishing Surgical Site Infections in Australia: Time Trends in Infection Rates, Pathogens and Antimicrobial Resistance Using a Comprehensive Victorian Surveillance Program, 2002–2013

Abstract

Standardized SSI surveillance methods have been implemented in Victoria, Australia. Over an 11-year period, diminishing rates of SSIs have been observed, although AMR infections increased significantly. Our findings facilitate the refinement of recommended surgical antibiotic prophylaxis regimens and highlight the need for a more expansive national surveillance strategy to identify changes in epidemiology.