To check antibiotics in animals

health clinics, Armed Forces Hospitals, University Hospitals and private hospitals.

“This year, the total antibiotic sales involving government and private healthcare sectors will be checked.

“Monitoring antibiotic sales will allow us to see consumption trends, which will be used as an indicator for the success of intervention measures,” Dr Suraya says.

But everyone can do their part in reducing AMR, such as by preventing infections from being transmitted.

“These measures include the appropriate use of antibiotics and vaccines, sanitation, hygiene measures, and other habits such as safe sexual practices.

“Efforts to control drug-resistant infections must become part of everyday practice in health care settings across the nation,” she says.

Doctors and pharmacists should prescribe and dispense only the antibiotics that are required to treat a patient, rather than automatically giving the newest or best-known medicines.

“Doctors should avoid overprescribing antibiotics despite being pressured by patients and should always follow guidelines and their clinical judgment,” urges Dr Suraya.

Calling it a “huge problem”, Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society president Amrahi Buang says as a member of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Malaysia is compelled to take appropriate actions to address AMR following the guide from WHO.

“We have formed a National Antimicrobial Resistance Committee that covers all aspects with regards to humans, animals and the environment.

“There are various working groups, covering awareness and education, antimicrobial stewardship initiatives and capacity building,” he says.

Amrahi stresses that all healthcare professionals must be trained on the proper use of antibiotics for various types of infections.

“In prescribing drugs, the choice of antibiotics in relation to the type of infection is very important.

“Patients must be given proper medication counselling by pharmacists when given antibiotics,” he urges.

Amrahi also advises healthcare professionals, handlers, visitors and patients to practice proper and adequate hand washing practices.

“Patients must follow the advice given by pharmacists at the point of dispensing.

“Antibiotics must be taken according to the stipulated time and duration of use.

“Patients shouldn’t share their antibiotics with others and inform prescribers if they are allergic to the medication,” he says.