Antimicrobial resistance: How to fight against it?

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing threat and requires urgent action by all sectors and society in general. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared it one of the 10 biggest public health threats facing humanity.

It is a natural process through which microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi, they change over time and stop responding to drugs used to prevent and treat infections in humans as well as animals and plants.

Every year more than 700,000 people die from resistant bacterial infections antibiotics, according to figures available to the WHO.

This health organization estimates that antimicrobial resistance it could cause 10 million deaths in the next 25 years and, in addition, leave economic losses exceeding $100 trillion by 2050.

Antimicrobial resistance can affect anyone at any stage of the disease life and it carries with it a series of consequences.

One of these consequences can be difficulty in treatment of infection and medical procedures: organ transplants, cancer chemotherapy, diabetes treatment, and major surgery (caesarean section or hip replacement).

There is also an increased risk of spread of disease in its severe form; increased rates of disability and death; and rising costs of medical care, with longer hospital stays and more intensive care, Pfizer experts said.

Factors related to its appearance

Resistant microorganisms are often found in humans, animals, food and the environment (water, soil and air).

They spread from food Animal origin and also, from person to person.

Among the main factors that accelerate its occurrence are: improper and excessive use of antibiotics; lack of access to clean water, sanitary and hygienic conditions; poor disease prevention and control measures; difficulties in accessing affordable and quality medicines, vaccines and diagnostics; infections in health institutions and agricultural crops; and little awareness and knowledge about it.

How to deal with it?

There are few treatment options for those who become infected bacteria resistant to antibiotics (one of the most powerful drugs in the fight against infection). Therefore, the following is recommended:

– Keep your hands clean and wash them constantly. He hand washing It is considered a life-saving measure, and is simple, cheap and effective in reducing the risk of infection.

– Receive recommended vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine.

– Stay home if you are sick and cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.

– Take antibiotics only when necessary and on prescription. These medicines will not help you if you do not need them.

– If the doctor prescribe an antibiotictake exactly as directed in the prescription.

– Avoid sharing these medicines with other people.

– Do not store antibiotics for future use. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of them safely.