Ever heard of AMR before? Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has become a growing concern in our modern-day medical world, so much so that the World Health Organisation (WHO) created a World AMR Awareness Week 10 years ago, taking place this year from 18-24 November. But what is it exactly and why should we be concerned? We bring you the info below.
According to the WHO, 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 diseases spreading, severe illness and death. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections become increasingly difficult or impossible to treat.
In South Africa, the impact of AMR is notable, due to the high prevalence of infectious diseases such as TB and HIV/AIDS. Drug-resistant strains of these diseases can lead to longer hospital stays, increased medical costs and higher mortality rates. But AMR is not just a local issue, it poses a significant threat to global health too. So, how can we help combat AMR?
- Responsible use of antibiotics – follow prescriptions carefully and avoid using antibiotics for viral infections such as the flu or common cold or sharing antibiotics with others and make sure to complete the full course, even if you feel better – this is crucial to preventing resistant bacteria from surviving and multiplying.
- Adopt good hygiene practices – regular handwashing, disinfecting surfaces and following appropriate food safety guidelines, all help reduce the spread of infections, minimising the need for antimicrobial treatment.
- Get vaccinated – vaccinations can prevent illnesses and reduce the need for antibiotics and they offer the opportunity for resistance to develop.
- Follow a healthy lifestyle – a balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleep contribute to a robust immune system that can fight off infections more effectively.
- Education – promoting campaigns that stress the importance of responsible medication use can help curb the misuse of antimicrobials.
At MedshieldMovement.co.za, we are here to help keep you informed and provide content and support that helps you to live a healthier lifestyle. The medical article, Antimicrobial Resistance in the WHO African Region: A Systematic Literature Review 2016–2020 sheds more light on the causes and implications of AMR in Africa. If you have any health questions or concerns, speak to your medical doctor.