The Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying recently organized a workshop on the National Action Plan to combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), during the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW). The theme of this year’s WAAW was “Spread awareness, stop resistance” and saw the launch of an International Colour Campaign, ‘Go Blue’ campaign, by the AMR tripartite organisations.
About AMR and Its Global Impact
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) refers to the resistance developed by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, etc against antimicrobial drugs. This results in standard treatments becoming ineffective, infections persisting, and possibly spreading to others. Microorganisms developing AMR are often called “superbugs”. Identified as one of the top 10 global health threats by the World Health Organization (WHO), AMR is responsible for up to 700,000 deaths annually.
Reasons Behind the Spread of AMR
Contamination around pharmaceutical manufacturing sites and the release of untreated waste containing active antimicrobials into the environment contribute to the spread of AMR. Overuse and misuse of medicines in humans, livestock and agriculture, coupled with poor access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, have accelerated the threat globally.
The Growing Concern of AMR
AMR increases healthcare costs due to lengthier hospital stays, additional tests, and use of more expensive drugs. A century of progress in medicine is at risk. Previously curable infections with standard drugs are now becoming incurable. Common infections and surgeries are becoming high-risk situations because of the misuse or overuse of antimicrobials.
The Need for New Antibiotics and the Threat of an Antibiotic Apocalypse
The last three decades have not seen the introduction of any new classes of antibiotics to the market. This is largely due to inadequate incentives for their development and production. Without urgent action, we are moving towards an antibiotic apocalypse, where bacteria would become completely resistant to treatment.
AMR in India: A Serious Challenge
India’s large population, easy over-the-counter access to antibiotics, high burden of infectious diseases and rising incomes make it a hotspot for the generation of resistance genes. With over 56,000 newborn deaths annually due to sepsis caused by organisms resistant to first-line antibiotics, AMR is a grave concern for the country.
Measures Taken to Address AMR in India
Several measures have been taken to address AMR in India. These include the establishment of labs in State Medical College, launch of AMR Surveillance and Research Network (AMRSN) in 2013, initiation of an antibiotic stewardship program, and the creation of an Integrated One Health Surveillance Network for AMR. Additionally, various activities such as Mission Indradhanush have been undertaken to improve vaccination coverage and monitoring.
Way Forward
Preventing the sale of spurious drugs, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, measuring bioavailability at pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, enforcing antibiotic policies and tracking the sale of drugs with GST are necessary steps for the future. Shifting from a syndromic approach to treatment, using new technologies and adhering to the WASH strategy will also help combat AMR effectively.
While tackling AMR is a daunting challenge, collective efforts geared towards spreading awareness and implementing effective measures can help curb this global health threat.