ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci & Tech - Diseases)

Context: Recently, the global community came together to observe the World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, which took place from November 18-24, 2023.

Antimicrobial Resistance

• About: It refers to the acquired resistance of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites etc., to the effectiveness of antimicrobial drugs utilized for infection treatment. 

oIn this, microorganisms evolve over time, rendering them unresponsive to medications. 

oThis, in turn, complicates the treatment of infections, elevates the likelihood of disease transmission, and raises the potential for severe illness and mortality.

• Causes: Injudicious use of antibiotic, self-medication, industry pollution, untreated disposal of sewage water bodies, etc.
• Threat: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is ranked as one of the biggest global health threats.

Global efforts against AMR: Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (GAP), World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) etc.

India’s Efforts Against AMR

• National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (2017-21) highlighted the government's success in promoting hand hygiene and sanitation through initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Kayakalp, and Swachh Swasth Sarvatra.
• The 2017 National Health Policy provided clear directives on antibiotic usage, restricting over-the-counter access and curbing antibiotic use for livestock.
• Red Line awareness campaign: Urging people not to use medicines marked with a red vertical line, including antibiotics, without a doctor’s prescription.