Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could claim up to 2 million lives annually in India by 2050. But the truth is, each of us has a role to play in preventing this imminent threat, preserving the power of antibiotics, and ensuring a healthier future.
While the fight against AMR might seem like a battle best left to scientists and policymakers, our everyday choices can have a significant impact in tackling AMR. By incorporating few practices into our daily routine, each and everyone can play a vital role in fostering a healthier future for India and entire world, starting today. Here’s how:
Handwash: First line of defence
Proper hand hygiene is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom, handling raw food, or being in public spaces are eliminating harmful bacteria before they have a chance to cause an infection, and reducing the need for antibiotics in the first place.
Moreover, proper etiquettes should be followed especially when in public places like `by covering mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing, avoid handshakes after coughing, washing hands after sneezing/ coughing and using sleeve/ elbow to avoid spread of infection through hands.
Food safety: From farm to fork
The journey of our food, from farm to table, presents multiple opportunities for bacteria in the environment to multiply and potentially cause illness. By practicing following safe food handling steps, we can minimise these risks:
Cook food thoroughly: Heat kills bacteria, so ensure your meals are cooked thoroughly.
Keep surfaces clean: Wash cutting boards, utensils, and countertops thoroughly with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item.
Store food properly: Refrigerate perishable foods promptly and at the correct temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
Water: Not just drinking water, but overall using safe water is imperative like brushing teeth, gargling and safe water for washing utensils.
These simple steps can prevent foodborne illnesses, again reducing the need for antibiotics.
Vaccination: A powerful preventative measure
Vaccines are often hailed as one of the greatest public health achievements. They trigger the immune system that help to fight against infections.
While we often associate vaccines with preventing viral infections such as measles or the flu, they can also protect against bacterial infections. By preventing these infections in the first place, we reduce the need for antibiotics and, consequently, the development of antibiotic resistance.
Responsible antibiotic use: A shared responsibility
Overuse and misuse are two of the leading causes of antibiotic resistance in India. Here’s how you can be a responsible antibiotic steward:
Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed: Complete the full course, even if you start feeling better.
Never share antibiotics: What works for one person may not work for another, and sharing can lead to incorrect dosage or treatment.
Don’t demand antibiotics for viral infections: Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses like the common cold or flu. Using them in these cases only contributes to resistance.
Supporting antibiotic Stewardship programs
Hospitals and healthcare settings are on the front lines of the fight against AMR. Antibiotic stewardship programs involve a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, nurses, and pharmacists who work together to ensure antibiotics are used appropriately. They track antibiotic prescription, implement guidelines for prescribing antibiotics, and educate both healthcare providers and patients about responsible and appropriate antibiotic use.
The fight against AMR is a marathon, not a sprint. Together, we can safeguard the nation’s future through a multifaceted approach, with individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers working together. By making informed choices in our daily lives, supporting responsible antibiotic use, and advocating for strong public health measures, we can all contribute to preserving the effectiveness of these life-saving medications for generations to come. Let’s act now to preserve the health and well-being of India’s thriving population against this silent pandemic.
References:
(1) Frontiers | Knowledge, attitudes and practices of antimicrobial resistance awareness among healthcare workers in India: a systematic review (frontiersin.org)
(2) Antimicrobial resistance in the environment: The Indian scenario – PMC (nih.gov)
(3) Antimicrobial resistance in India: A review – PMC (nih.gov)
(4) Antimicrobial Stewardship – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)