In South Africa, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a severe challenge. The issue takes centre stage during World Antibiotic Awareness Week (WAAW), observed from 18-24 November, with the theme “Educate. Advocate. Act Now”. This international campaign underscores the urgent need for awareness and coordinated action to combat AMR across all sectors.
AMR is a mounting global crisis that affects public health, food security, and economic stability.
As antimicrobial agents like antibiotics become less effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, once-treatable infections are becoming harder – or even impossible – to cure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this accelerates the spread of diseases and leads to more severe illness and death.
“When common infections become difficult or even impossible to treat, it leads to prolonged illness and higher mortality rates,” says Elani van Zyl, sales and marketing manager for Pharma Dynamics’ hospital division.
She warns that without prompt intervention, drug-resistant infections will increasingly burden South Africa’s already strained healthcare system.
The alarming scope of AMR
Recent research paints a grim picture of the AMR crisis. A study from the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (Gram) Project, published in The Lancet, reveals that antibiotic resistance has been responsible for at least one million deaths annually since 1990. If no action is taken, experts predict this figure could soar to 39 million deaths globally by 2050 – equivalent to three lives lost every minute.
South Africa faces unique challenges in combating AMR. High rates of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, which increasingly exhibit resistance to standard treatments, amplify the threat. Additionally, the misuse or overuse of antibiotics in both human healthcare and agriculture contributes to the growing resistance.
South Africa, like many other low- and middle-income countries, bears a disproportionate burden of AMR, explains van Zyl. She stresses that factors such as overprescription, self-medication, and the routine use of antibiotics in livestock farming exacerbate the problem.
Educate, advocate, act
To address the AMR crisis, WAAW calls on individuals and institutions to take action in three key areas: education, advocacy, and immediate intervention.
“Education is fundamental,” Van Zyl emphasises. “Every South African, from healthcare workers to farmers to ordinary citizens, must understand the role they play in reducing AMR risks, whether it’s through responsible antibiotic use or infection prevention practices.”
Advocacy is equally critical. National health agencies and organisations like the WHO are urging stronger political commitment and resource allocation to tackle AMR. In September 2024, the United Nations General Assembly convened a high-level meeting on AMR, fostering global dialogue and renewed commitments.
“Without concrete government support and policy change, the fight against AMR will falter,” warns Van Zyl.
South Africa’s national department of health is actively working on a national action plan, focusing on improving surveillance systems, diagnostic capabilities, and public awareness. However, Van Zyl believes more collaboration is needed to close the gaps.
Immediate action is essential. Healthcare institutions are encouraged to implement infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, invest in new vaccines, and improve access to water and sanitation. In agriculture, reducing antibiotic overuse in livestock is critical to prevent resistant strains from crossing species barriers and infecting humans.
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Broader impact of antibiotic resistance
The effects of AMR extend beyond health. Treating drug-resistant infections requires longer hospital stays and more expensive diagnostics, driving up healthcare costs. Moreover, AMR threatens the agricultural sector by jeopardizing animal health and food production, further impacting economic stability.
The public plays a vital role in combating AMR. Van Zyl advises that antibiotics should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional. Completing the full course of treatment is crucial to prevent resistant bacteria from developing. Simple hygiene practices, like regular handwashing, can also help reduce the spread of infections.
As WAAW raises awareness about the growing threat of AMR, South Africans are encouraged to take action. By increasing awareness, advocating for stronger policies, and practising responsible behaviours, the nation can help stem the tide of antimicrobial resistance, ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.
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