Menace of antimicrobial resistance in LMICs: Current surveillance practices and control measures to tackle hostility

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat, leading to numerous patient deaths annually.
• AMR prevalence is higher in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to factors including limited awareness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current surveillance practices and control measures for AMR.
• To highlight the role of antimicrobial stewardship programs and regulatory authorities in combating AMR, especially in LMICs.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on AMR surveillance and control strategies.
• Analysis of World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and institutional-level interventions.
• Focus on grassroots awareness, hygiene, sanitation, and vaccine development.

Main Results:

• Antimicrobial stewardship programs are recommended by WHO for institutional-level AMR control.
• Grassroots awareness creation and improved hygiene/sanitation are vital for reducing AMR.
• Vaccines present a potential future strategy against increasing multi-drug resistance.

Conclusions:

• A multi-faceted approach involving surveillance, stewardship, public awareness, hygiene, and potentially vaccines is necessary to combat AMR.
• Regulatory authorities play a critical role in managing the AMR situation effectively.
• Targeted strategies are essential for LMICs to mitigate the impact of AMR.