Pakistan taking actions to limit antibiotic use

Islamabad : Actions are being taken to improve human and animal health in Pakistan and to prevent diseases in a bid to limit the use of antibiotics. National strategies have been developed to tackle the rising threat of Antimicrobialc Resistance (AMR)—an international catastrophe that requires urgent management.

The Executive Director of the National Institute of Health (NIH) Prof. Aamer Ikram extended this assurance while addressing participants of an awareness walk arranged by the Ministry of National Health Services in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) here Wednesday to commemorate World Antibiotic Awareness Week (WAAW). The aim of the event was to raise awareness about the threat of antibiotic resistance, the importance of appropriate antibiotic prescribing, and the consequences of misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans and animals.

A large number of health professionals from the Ministry of Health and its allied organizations, as well as representatives of private sector hospitals, pharmacies, professional organizations, students, partners and media participated in the event. Banners, flyers and caps were arranged for the walk. “Play your role in stopping antibiotic resistance” read a banner held by lead participants. Indeed, the public in particular has a crucial role to play in helping slow the tide of increasing levels of resistance. Individuals should seek medical advice for antibiotic treatment, avoid self-medication, never share or use leftover antibiotics, and avoid infection through vaccination.