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As part of World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week, clinicians at Western District Health Service (WDHS) are actively trying to educate the public about the serious effects AMR can have on the human body.
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change and no longer respond to medicines, such as antibiotics, making it harder to treat patients and increasing the risk of disease spread and severe or critical illness.
Antibiotics, Antifungals, Antivirals and Anti-parasitics are among the most commonly prescribed drugs. Misuse or unnecessary overuse of them has consequences for patients and the community.
Katharine Vine RN, from WDHS Infection Prevention and Control, stated that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical concern because it jeopardises the effectiveness of lifesaving medications.
‘If antimicrobials lose their ability to combat infections, essential medical procedures like cancer treatments and organ transplants become riskier due to the potential for infections. Indeed if resistance continues to evolve such life-saving procedures may ultimately not be possible. AMR is already impacting patient care, and it’s expected to worsen over time,’ she said.
The World Health Organization considers AMR a major threat to human and animal health, as well as food and agriculture. Each year, hundreds of people in Australia die due to AMR. Antibiotic resistance can be exacerbated not only using antimicrobials in humans but also by agricultural practices and the use of antimicrobials in animals.
Dr Joe Sasadeusz, Royal Melbourne Hospital infectious diseases physician, who collaborates on the WDHS Antimicrobial stewardship team said that the correct use of antimicrobials is vital because their overuse can lead to resistance not only in patients but also the broader community. Inappropriate antimicrobial use has accelerated this problem, rendering some treatments ineffective.
‘Taking antibiotics for a viral sore throat or a cold does not mean it will resolve itself much faster. It’s crucial to take antimicrobials ((such as antibiotics) as prescribed by doctors and not pressure them for unnecessary prescriptions.
Developing new, stronger antimicrobials is challenging, expensive, and time-consuming. The supply of new antimicrobials has been decreasing. Therefore, responsible antimicrobial use is imperative,’ Dr Sasadeusz said.
To address AMR, people must use antimicrobials only when necessary, in the right way, and for the shortest duration. It’s a global issue that demands action from individuals, governments, and organisations. Without prompt intervention, common infections and minor injuries could once again become life-threatening.
World AMR awareness week is celebrated each year from November 18-24 to raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance.