Distribution and molecular characterization of integron classes from <i>Escherichia coli</i> and <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> isolates in Sulaymaniyah province of Iraq

These data are about the prevalence of integrons and resistance genes, helping to fill a significant gap in global surveillance efforts. Results can be used by global health authorities and the World Health Organization to develop national and international antimicrobial resistance (AMR) control strategies. The study is important because integrons are key genetic platforms that capture and disseminate antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria. In addition, <i>Escherichia coli</i> and <i>Klebsiella</i> spp. are among the top causes of hospital- and community-acquired infections, especially urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia. Therefore, it will be riskier when these bacteria have a high rate of integrons and resistance genes because it impedes treatments during infection. Another importance of this study is that the study was carried out in Iraq. Iraq, like many low- and middle-income countries, faces challenges with unregulated antibiotic use, leading to high rates of AMR.