High burden of viridans streptococcal endocarditis linked to multidrug resistance and regional risk factors: a molecular epidemiological report from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

This is the first molecular epidemiological study from KP that demonstrates the high prevalence of VGS-IE with considerable multidrug resistance confirmed for genetic determinants. These findings emphasized the urgent need for improved antimicrobial stewardship, access to better dental care, and the integration of region-specific risk factors into preventive strategies to mitigate the burden of IE in regions with low-income settings.