Dr Sangeeta Sharma says antibiotics work against bacteria only, not viruses like the common cold or flu as many believe. By not demanding antibiotics at the OTC or when visiting doctors, a patient can play a pivotal role in advocating for responsible antibiotic use and help combat one of the most pressing global challenges: antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
In our interconnected world, the health of humans, animals, the environment, and our food sources are all intertwined. This concept, known as "One Health," has gained significant recognition as a key strategy to combat one of the most pressing global challenges: antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Imagine a big puzzle where all the pieces fit together to make a complete picture. One Health is like that puzzle. It's a way of thinking about how the health of people, animals, and the environment are all connected.
The health of humans isn't just about us – it's also linked to the health of animals and the world around us. For example, if animals get sick, it can affect us too. And if the environment, like air, water, and soil, becomes polluted or unhealthy, it can make everyone sick, including humans and animals.
The profound interdependence between human health, animal health, and the environment is undeniable. The health of animals, the food we consume, and the quality of our environment directly impact our well-being. Environmental pollution, encompassing water, soil, and air pollution, is playing a role in escalating infection rates. Polluted environments provide breeding grounds for superbugs, which can then be transmitted to humans and animals, fueling the rise of AMR.
Think about how we use medicines, like antibiotics, to treat infections. When we use these medicines too much or not in the right way, the germs that make us sick can learn how to fight back and become really strong, so the medicines don't work as well anymore. This is called "antimicrobial resistance," or in other words superbug challenge and it's a problem that affects both people and animals. This means that antibiotics are no longer effective, leading to prolonged illnesses, hospitalizations, increased healthcare costs, and even fatalities.
The use of antibiotics is rising in human and non-human sectors. The surge in demand for animal protein has led to intensive use of antibiotics in animal husbandry and aquaculture, and in agricultural practices. To meet this demand, antimicrobials are often overused to prevent diseases and promote growth. This excessive use promotes the development of superbugs, which can spread through the food chain and reach humans, making treatment difficult.
It's important to understand that the use of antibiotics differs from other classes of medicines. When individuals take antibiotics, the impact is not limited to their personal health; it also affects the community. The more antibiotics are used, the higher the chances of developing and spreading superbugs, creating a public health crisis.
Solutions to combat AMR require joint efforts from medical professionals, veterinarians, researchers, policymakers, and the public.
Antibiotics are used as a quick fix for most common illnesses like common cold or flu or watery diarrhea. These illnesses are caused by viruses and are self-limiting, thus antibiotics are unnecessary in these situations. Antibiotics work against bacteria only, not viruses like the common cold or flu. However, when antibiotics are needed such as in typhoid fever, urinary tract infection, pneumonia etc., antibiotics play an important role in curing these infections, therefore, doctor's instructions need to be followed carefully and course should be completed, even if one feels better. It is essential to ensure all harmful bacteria are eliminated. Stopping antibiotics early might allow the surviving bacteria to develop resistance. Practicing good hygiene, handwashing, can reduce the spread of infections and the need for antibiotics. Immunizations also play a vital role in preventing proper certain illnesses, reducing the demand for antibiotics.
Public pressure can also influence change. By not demanding antibiotics and asking questions when visiting healthcare professionals, individuals play a pivotal role in advocating for responsible antibiotic use.
One Health emphasizes a collaborative approach to tackle AMR. We must reduce the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in human and animal healthcare. We must understand that antibiotics are not the only solution to fight infections. There are other solutions available which can reduce the use of antibiotics such as sustainable agricultural practices, improved sanitation, and responsible waste management. We can preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics by recognizing the urgency of this issue and work together to secure a healthier world for everyone.
(Dr Sangeeta Sharma is Professor & Head, Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences (IHBAS), Delhi)
