World Antimicrobial Awareness Week Focuses on Antimicrobial Resistance Risks

Hyderabad: World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is observed annually to increase awareness about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and promote strategies to prevent its spread. AMR poses a significant threat to public health worldwide, as improper antibiotic use fuels the emergence of drug-resistant infections.

Many individuals, when faced with minor ailments like coughs, sore throats, or fevers, purchase antibiotics without consulting a doctor. This misuse, coupled with prematurely discontinuing prescribed courses, accelerates the development of AMR. Inputs from IANS reveal that AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites develop resistance to antibiotics, making infections increasingly difficult to treat and contributing to longer illnesses and higher mortality rates.

Dr. Arcy Billoria, a microbiologist at Aster Prime Hospital, elaborated on the dangers of antibiotic misuse and provided essential recommendations to mitigate AMR. According to IANS, AMR is a driving factor behind the rise of multidrug-resistant organisms, often referred to as "superbugs." These resistant infections are associated with prolonged illnesses, increased medical costs, and higher death rates.

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies AMR as one of the top 10 global health threats. As per IANS, the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) study estimates AMR causes approximately one million deaths annually and could result in up to 39 million fatalities by 2050 if not addressed.

Dr. Billoria highlighted that one of the primary contributors to AMR is the misuse of antibiotics. Many people take antibiotics without prescriptions, use leftover or expired medication, or discontinue their course too early. Inputs from IANS stress that these behaviors need to change. Antibiotics should only be used under medical guidance, in the prescribed dosage, and for the full recommended duration.

She also advised against practices like pressuring doctors to prescribe antibiotics unnecessarily or using antibiotics prescribed for others. Common conditions like runny noses, sore throats, or diarrhea are often caused by viruses, which do not respond to antibiotics. According to IANS, using antibiotics for viral infections disrupts the body’s bacterial balance and fosters resistance.

Preventive measures such as vaccinations, regular handwashing, and covering the mouth while coughing or sneezing can reduce the need for antibiotics. Dr. Billoria emphasized that responsible antibiotic use is crucial to preserving its effectiveness for future generations and avoiding a global health crisis caused by resistant infections.