Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global crisis that poses a significant threat to human, animal and plant health.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) approximately 5 million deaths are associated with bacterial AMR every year.
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antibiotics. This makes infections become difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, disability and death.
Jeniffer Njuhigu, Programme Officer AMR at the Ministry of Health, revealed that several factors can accelerate the emergence and spread of Antimicrobial resistance with the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans, animals and plants being a key driver.
Speaking at a media engagement forum on AMR in Kajiado County Wednesday, Njuhigu revealed that unnecessary use of antibiotics, sharing of antibiotics, incomplete courses of treatment and using antibiotics to treat viral infections can contribute to Antimicrobials resistance.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change to resist antibiotics that used to effectively treat them. Misuse and overuse of antimicrobial medicines is a key driver of this.” She said.
The officer added that the use of antibiotics in livestock to promote growth and prevent disease can lead to resistant strains that can be transmitted to humans.
Another driver of AMR is poor sanitation and hygiene which facilitate the spread of resistant microorganisms.
The increased movement of people and goods from one place to another also allows resistant organisms to spread more easily across borders.
Njuhigu warned that AMR is dangerous due to the high risk of mortality and long term effects on humans.
It results in recurrent infections, severe medication side effects, treatment failures, extended hospital stays and high cost of treatment.
Despite the high prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistance, there is limited awareness and understanding of the consequences among the public.
Njuhigu emphasised the need to create public awareness on the risks of AMR so as to save lives as it is 100 percent preventable.
By Rop Janet
