DON’T LET YOUR LOVED ONES FALL VICTIM TO ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

IN LINE WITH the ‘Win the War against AMR’ program, supported by the World Health Organization, the Department of Health (DOH) has come out with a highly informative threefold leaflet entitled “Antimicrobial Resistance” (AMR). This refers to the ability of germs to transform and protect themselves against antimicrobials, which allows them to survive, leading to dangerous health and societal consequences. This happens when an infected person: - uses antimicrobials incorrectly - fails to complete the full treatment - uses antimicrobials without a doctor’s prescription

The inappropriate use of antimicrobials as supplements (growth promotants) in animals also causes AMR.

Antimicrobial resistance causes antimicrobials to become ineffective when you really need them. If a resistant germ infects you, it may result in: • longer, complicated, and more expensive treatment • the need to use toxic drugs or radical measures • prolonged sickness, hospitalization complications, or possibly death

Ultimately, AMR poses threats to the individual, the community, and society.

HOW DOES AMR DEVELOP? 1. Infection: Every infection starts with a germ—bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites—that may be transmitted through different means. - Inhalation (also known as aspiration): the flow of air into an organism; - Ingestion: the consumption of a substance by an organism; - Person-to-person contact: the spray of droplets during coughing and sneezing can spread infectious disease; and - Animals and insects: vector-borne. 2. Proliferation: Germs may multiply in your body even if you feel fine.

3. Illness: An infection may cause you to feel sick.

4. Management: An infection is managed by proper diagnosis and correct use of doctor-prescribed antimicrobials. These allow the medication to effectively kill the germs and cure the infection.

Cure: With appropriate management, a person may fully recover from infection.

5. Antimicrobial resistance: Antimicrobials may not always be necessary in the management of an infection. Incorrect intake of antimicrobials is dangerous and can lead to AMR.

HOW TO COMBAT AMR

Protecting yourself and your family • Practice hand washing and proper hygiene • Have yourself and your family vaccinated • Adapt a healthy lifestyle to boost your immune system • Clean your surroundings and environment • Cook your food thoroughly

What to do if you think you have an infection • Consult with your doctor early on • Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing • Get plenty of rest and avoid unnecessary contact with other people

Using antimicrobials correctly • Use antimicrobials only when prescribed • Take the correct dose of the antimicrobial • Always finish your prescribed antimicrobial treatment course • Never share or use leftover antimicrobials

PUBLIC CONFUSED ABOUT ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE A new multi-country survey shows people are confused about this major threat to public health and do not understand how to prevent it from growing. The majority also thinks that agriculture should use fewer antibiotics (AllAboutFeed, November 18, 2015).