Public Urged to Use Antibiotics Responsibly

Thika,

Thursday November 23rd, 2023

KNA By Hellen Lunalo

In an effort to address the global issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the Department of Health Services in Kiambu held a walk on Wednesday sensitizing the public on the importance of using antibiotics responsibly as they observed the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW).

The global event under the theme “Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together” brought together healthcare workers who explained to the public the importance of proper diagnosis before the consumption of antimicrobial agents.

The County Director of Health Dr Hillary Kagwa who organized the event noted that currently the misuse and overuse of antimicrobial agents such as antibiotics was the major contributor to the rise of antimicrobial resistance.

“AMR has been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the top ten threats to global public health. This phenomenon occurs when microbes such as bacteria, fungi and parasites undergo changes over time that cause them to adapt to antibiotics.”

“As antibiotics lose their effectiveness, treating infections becomes increasingly challenging resulting in an increase of major illnesses and in severe cases the death of patients.” He said.

He however added that through public education and the sensitization of patients, the department in partnership with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders had contributed to the prevention of antimicrobial resistance.

“We strongly discourage the public from over-the-counter antibiotic usage and in the event of sickness, we urge patients to seek medical consultation from a licensed medical practitioner.” Said Dr Kagwa.

Dr Kagwa acknowledged MOH for making great strides through the AMR coordination mechanism that has embraced and implemented the one health approach system which encourages more research, collaborations and stewardship efforts.

“As we make a commitment to deliberately work with all stakeholders, we continuously reference existing policies and legislation that ensure a foundation on which to lay the principles that guide our efforts,” stated Kagwa.

He called upon the National Government to provide access to funding for routine surveillance and for continuous research on AMR.

Courtesy; KNA