Antimicrobial resistance happens when microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) change when they are exposed to antimicrobial drugs such as antibiotics. Microorganisms that develop antimicrobial resistance are sometimes referred to as “superbugs”.
As a result, medicines become ineffective and infections persist in the body, increasing the risk of spread to others.
Why is antimicrobial resistance a concern?
WHO has declared antimicrobial resistance one of the greatest threats to health security today and it is present in every country, including Sierra Leone.
New resistance mechanisms are emerging and spreading globally, threatening our ability to treat common infectious diseases, resulting in prolonged illness, disability, and even death.
Antimicrobial resistance also increases the cost of health care with lengthier stays in hospitals and a need for more intensive care.
What is causing antimicrobial resistance?
Antimicrobial resistance occurs naturally over time, usually through genetic changes. However, the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials such as antibiotics is accelerating this process. In many places, antibiotics are overused and misused in people and animals, and often given without professional oversight.
Lack of awareness among the public, health workers and pharmacists about the appropriate use of antimicrobials also contributes to the issue of resistance in many developing countries.
Examples of misuse include when antibiotics are taken by people with viral infections like colds and flu, and when they are given as growth promoters in animals and fish.
Poor adherence to infection control, especially in healthcare settings, and inadequate sanitary conditions also encourage the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Current situation
Worldwide, antimicrobial resistance has been reported for key antibiotic and antiviral treatments used for various commonly occurring conditions including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, gonorrhoea, tuberculosis, HIV and malaria.
Coordinated action is required to minimize the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance. In Sierra Leone, work is progressing towards the development of a national Antimicrobial Resistance Strategic Plan.
WHO is also working closely with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) in a ‘One Health’ approach to promote best practices to avoid the emergence and spread of antibacterial resistance, including optimal use of antibiotics in both humans and animals. With support from USAID, a One Health coordination platform was launched in Sierra Leone in June 2017.
Infection prevention and control
Effective infection prevention and control (IPC) is critical to prevent the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Worldwide, one in 10 patients acquires an infection while receiving health care. This can contribute to the spread of antimicrobial resistance, with patients requiring subsequent treatments for these infections.
Most of these healthcare-associated infections can be prevented through simple, low-cost IPC interventions performed at critical moments, such as hand hygiene.
