Antibiotic resistance happens when germs like bacteria and fungi develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. That means the germs are not killed and continue to grow. Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant germs are difficult and sometimes impossible, to treat. In most cases, antibiotic-resistant infections require extended hospital stays, additional follow-up doctor visits, and costly and toxic alternatives. Antibiotic resistance does not mean the body is becoming resistant to antibiotics; it is that bacteria have become resistant to the antibiotics designed to kill them. Penicillin, the first commercialized antibiotic, was discovered in 1928 by Alexander Fleming. Ever since there has been discovery and acknowledgment of resistance alongside the discovery of new antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development today. It can affect anyone, of any age. Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process. A growing number of infections – such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhea, and salmonellosis – are becoming harder to treat as the antibiotics used to treat them become less effective. It leads to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality. Tackling antibiotic resistance is a high priority for WHO. A global action plan on antimicrobial resistance, including antibiotic resistance, was endorsed at the World Health Assembly in May 2015. The global action plan aims to ensure the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases with safe and effective medicines. The “Global action plan on antimicrobial resistance” has 5 strategic objectives: 1) To improve awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance. 2) To strengthen surveillance and research. 3) To reduce the incidence of infection. 4) To optimize the use of antimicrobial medicines. 5) To ensure sustainable investment in countering antimicrobial resistance.

Affrin Sulthana B

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