The Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) has expressed concern about the growing self-diagnosis, prescription, and inappropriate use of antibiotics by some members of the public which he says is a serious growing concern.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, virus and fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial agents and as a result of drug resistance antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents become ineffective and infections become difficult or impossible to treat increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.
Antimicrobial resistance isn’t just a human health concern but also affects animals as well of which Resistance bacteria can be transmitted between animals and humans through various means.
Antibiotic resistance can occur naturally but human activities like the overuse of antibiotics have accelerated this process.
Responding to an inquiry by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, ZMA Public Health Board Chairperson Dr. Gabriel Sialubono said that self-prescription is one way that contributes to antimicrobial resistance due to the inappropriate use of antibiotics.
Dr. Sialubono said that it is very important for members of the public to consultant healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis, treatment and prescription to combat antimicrobial resistance.
“Self-prescription is one way that contributes to antimicrobial resistance due to the inappropriate use of antibiotics. It is very crucial to consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and prescription to combat this growing serious issue,” said Dr. Sialubono.
