Journal of travel medicine
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Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE) have worldwide become increasingly prevalent as pathogens causing urinary tract infections (UTIs), posing challenges in their treatment. Of particular concern are travellers to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), a substantial proportion of whom become colonized by ESBL-PE, with UTIs as the most common clinical manifestation. Seeking tools for preventing ESBL-PE UTI, we explored factors associated with (i) any UTI (versus control), (ii) ESBL-PE UTI (versus control) and (iii) ESBL-PE versus non-ESBL-PE UTI. ⋯ Of the numerous factors predisposing to UTI and/or ESBL-PE UTI, our study highlights antibiotic use and LMIC travel. Household members' LMIC travel appears to pose a risk of ESBL-PE UTI, pointing to household transmission of travel-acquired uropathogens. As predisposing factors to multidrug-resistant UTI, international travel and antibiotic use constitute practical targets for prevention efforts.