As we recognised World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2024, it is important to focus on a serious health issue: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). This occurs when bacteria become resistant to the medicines designed to kill them. AMR can make infections harder to treat and can lead to longer illnesses, higher medical costs, and increased risk of death.
The Case of Urinary Tract Infections
One clear example of AMR is found in Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). These infections are often caused by Escherichia coli, which account for 50-90% of UTI cases. Antibiotics are commonly used to treat UTIs, but the overuse of these medications has led to many bacteria becoming resistant. This means that some antibiotics no longer work effectively against these infections. Common symptoms of a UTI include:
- Frequent urination
- Pain or burning during urination
- Turbid or smelly urine
- Abdominal or back pain
Diagnosing a UTI usually involves testing a urine sample in a lab to identify the bacteria and determine which antibiotics can effectively treat the infection.
Causes of Antimicrobial Resistance
Several factors contribute to the rise of AMR:
- The use of antibiotics without prescription
- Incompletion of the entire dose of antibiotics that prescribed by doctor
The Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance
The effects of AMR go beyond individual health risks. In Indonesia, the prevalence of UTI is still high, especially in women, elderly, and people with chronic disease. It threatens the success of many medical treatments and economy.
Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance
To fight against AMR, we need to take several important steps:
- Use Antibiotics Responsibly: Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a doctor.
- Finish the entire dose of prescribed antibiotics: Always complete the full course as directed.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as frequent urination or painful urination.
As we reflect on World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2024, it is clear that tackling antimicrobial resistance requires cooperation from everyone—individuals, healthcare providers, and communities around the world. By understanding how AMR happens and taking steps to prevent it, we can protect public health now and in the future. Let’s commit to using antibiotics wisely and work together for a healthier future free from the threat of antimicrobial resistance.
Educate. Advocate. Act Now.
As we recognise World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, it is important to address a serious public health issue: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Urinary tract infections (UTIs) provide a clear example, with E. coli responsible for 50-90% of these cases. While antibiotics are often used to treat UTIs, their overuse has led to increased resistance.
To mitigate the risk of AMR, we encourage the following best practices:
- Use Antibiotics Responsibly: Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a doctor.
- Finish the entire dose of prescribed antibiotics: Always complete the full course as directed.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as frequent urination or painful urination.
Let us work together to combat antimicrobial resistance and protect our health for the future. By taking these steps, we can help ensure that antibiotics remain effective tools in our healthcare system.
Educate. Advocate. Act Now.
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