In Thailand, and worldwide, a hidden crisis is unfolding that threatens everyone's health. This crisis, known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR), makes common infections harder to treat and puts the future of medicine at risk. AMR happens when germs like bacteria and viruses change and can no longer be killed by medicines. This makes infections tougher to treat, leading to longer hospital stays and higher medical costs.
The urgency to address AMR has never been greater. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the issue as hospitals, overwhelmed with patients, saw a surge in antibiotic prescriptions for COVID-19 cases, despite antibiotics being ineffective against viral infections. This misuse has made many germs resistant to antibiotics, turning simple infections into serious health threats. In 2019, AMR caused about 700,000 deaths in South-East Asia and the Western Pacific.
To tackle this critical issue, Thailand hosted the 4th National Forum on Antimicrobial Resistance on June 12-13, 2024 in Bangkok. This forum bought together experts and policymakers from multiple sectors to discuss the latest strategies and progress in combating AMR, further emphasizing the country's commitment to this critical issue. The forum featured sessions on political commitment, challenges of AMR, Thailand’s second National Action Plan on AMR, global collaboration, and surveillance systems.
Everyone has a role to play in combating AMR. Healthcare professionals must prescribe antibiotics only when necessary and educate patients on their proper use. Farmers and veterinarians should limit the use of antibiotics in animals and follow guidelines for responsible use. The general public needs to understand the importance of using antibiotics responsibly and adhering to prescribed treatments. Increased public awareness and responsible antibiotic use are crucial in the fight against AMR.
Recent reports from Thai research papers illustrate the gravity of the situation. A study by the Thai National Institute of Health highlighted the overuse of antibiotics in agriculture, stressing the need for stricter regulations and public awareness campaigns. Research conducted by Chulalongkorn University reported on the alarming rise of drug-resistant infections in Thai hospitals, where routine infections have become life-threatening. A study from Mahidol University covered a government initiative to promote responsible antibiotic use through educational programs in schools and communities, aiming to reduce misuse and over-prescription.
Thailand is also stepping up its efforts to combat AMR at global level. On May 28, 2024, Thailand joined 25 other Asia-Pacific countries in endorsing a joint position paper on AMR at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. This initiative, led by Japan, aims to accelerate action against AMR over the next five years and will be presented at the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting on AMR in September 2024. The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided strategies to fight AMR, which Thailand is following. These include raising awareness and improving surveillance of antibiotic use.
Thailand is committed to leading the fight against AMR. By using antibiotics responsibly, as advised also by WHO, everyone can help protect themselves and their communities from this growing threat. Together, we can ensure a safer future for everyone.
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