Kerala Takes Pride In World Antibiotic Awareness Week: Health Minister Veena George said that the state can be very proud of World Antibiotic Awareness Week. Kerala has become the first state in India to launch Anti-Biogram (AMR Surveillance Report) to assess the level of Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) in Kerala and codify measures to prevent Anti-Microbial Resistance accordingly. The state’s antibiogram report was released recently. Moreover, District Level Anti-Microbial Resistance Committees have also been constituted in all districts to strengthen the activities. These committees met and conducted several activities. The minister stated that the aim is to make the state fully antibiotic-literate by 2023.
Antibiogram report helps to understand the overuse of antibiotics and devise action plans to reduce it. It is clear from the State Antibiogram Report that the antibiotic resistance level is increasing as compared to the past. Following this, antibiotic resistance activities were intensified in the state.
Every year November 18 to 24 is observed as World Antibiotic Awareness Week. The aim is to spread awareness about antibiotics to all sections of people. This year’s message is that together we can stop antimicrobial resistance. Awareness programs were organized by the Health Department, Animal Husbandry Department, and Fisheries Department in cooperation with One Health. Various programs were organized in all the districts during World Antibiotic Awareness Week. Various awareness programs were organized by medical colleges, government, and private hospitals. The state has given importance to activities to achieve anti-biotic literacy.
We can also play a role in antibiotic resistance
- Most infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are therefore ineffective against these.
- Antibiotics should be used only as prescribed by a doctor.
- Never ask for antibiotics or buy them without a doctor’s prescription.
- Never use leftover antibiotics after treatment.
- Do not dispose of leftover or expired antibiotics on land or water bodies.
- Antibiotic treatment should be completed for the period prescribed by the doctor, even if the disease is cured.
- Antibiotics should never be shared with others.
- Wash your hands regularly to prevent infection.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Get vaccinations on time.
