HEALTH

Insight on Antimicrobial Resistance: World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2023

WAAW is celebrated from 18-24 November every year. The theme for WAAW 2023 will remain “Preventing antimicrobial resistance together”, AMR is a threat to humans, animals, plants and the environment

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.

Here are 5 things to know about AMR;

Proper Antibiotic Use:

Educate the public about the importance of taking antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and completing the full course of treatment. Avoid self-medication and never share antibiotics with others.

Vaccination:

Emphasize the role of vaccinations in preventing infections. By getting vaccinated, individuals can reduce the need for antibiotics to treat certain illnesses, contributing to overall antimicrobial stewardship.

Hand Hygiene:

Promote good hand hygiene practices, as simple measures like regular handwashing with soap and water can prevent the spread of infections. This, in turn, reduces the reliance on antibiotics to treat preventable illnesses.

Awareness of Agriculture Practices:

Increase awareness about responsible use of antibiotics in agriculture. Encourage consumers to choose products from farmers and producers who follow sustainable and ethical practices, minimizing the use of antibiotics in livestock.

Supporting Research and Development:

Advocate for increased funding and support for research and development of new antimicrobial treatments. Highlight the importance of innovation to combat evolving resistant strains of bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. Public awareness can contribute to policy changes and increased investment in this crucial area.

Conclusion;

AMR poses a serious threat to public health, as it can lead to prolonged illness, increased healthcare costs, and a higher risk of the spread of infections. Addressing this issue requires a One Health approach, involving collaboration across human health, animal health, and environmental sectors to promote responsible use and preserve the efficacy of existing antimicrobial agents.