Namibia faces significant challenges with antimicrobial resistance (AMR), as shown by a case where a patient was treated with tigecycline due to antibiotic resistance. The government is responding with a National Action Plan in collaboration with WHO, implementing awareness campaigns and improving infection control measures. The commitment to combating AMR reflects a broader effort to enhance the health security of the nation and achieve universal health coverage.
In June 2024, a 66-year-old woman in Windhoek, Namibia, was admitted to the Medical Intensive Care Unit with pneumonia caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, only treatable with tigecycline. The pharmacy required a compassionate clearance to procure the drug for her treatment. Despite completing the course and stabilizing, the patient had multiple comorbidities and unfortunately passed away, highlighting a critical issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Namibia.
AMR occurs when pathogens like bacteria evolve to resist medications, making infections harder to treat and increasing health risks. Globally, AMR is a significant public health threat, directly causing an estimated 1.27 million deaths in 2019 alone. Namibia reported 451 deaths due to AMR, with 1,900 more related to its effects.
Recognizing the severity of AMR, the Namibian government has initiated comprehensive health system interventions to secure public health and progress towards universal health coverage (UHC). The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) is actively implementing initiatives aligned with the National Action Plan, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
To combat antibiotic overuse, Namibia established a multi-sectoral governance body to coordinate AMR-related activities. The nation marked its first World Antimicrobial Awareness Week in November 2021, promoting the theme “Preventing antimicrobial resistance together” in 2023, uniting various government ministries in the initiative.
Namibia has launched an infection prevention and control action plan, with WHO aiding in educational campaigns and trainings concerning hygiene and quality standards. In a significant milestone, Namibia submitted AMR data to the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (GLASS) in December 2023.
Dr. Richard Banda, WHO Representative to Namibia, emphasized the seriousness of AMR, stating that unchecked resistance threatens routine medical treatments and undermines UHC efforts. He commended Namibia’s comprehensive strategies for raising public awareness and sector collaboration.
Namibia’s approach to AMR reflects its broader commitment to strengthening health security by employing a One Health strategy that addresses human, animal, and environmental health interconnections. The launch of the National Tripartite One Health Strategy for 2024-2028 signifies the nation’s dedication to safeguarding public health in collaboration with international partners.
The UHC Partnership, which operates in over 125 countries and represents more than 3 billion people, receives funding from various countries and organizations, including the EU and WHO, emphasizing global collaboration in tackling AMR.
Namibia is actively addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through a multi-faceted approach involving government collaboration and public health initiatives. Key achievements include a national action plan, public awareness campaigns, and submitting AMR data to global platforms. Strengthening health systems and integrating a One Health approach are crucial to combating AMR and ensuring health security in the region. The commitment of the Namibian government, supported by WHO and international partners, underscores the importance of collective action in mitigating the threat of AMR.
Original Source: www.who.int
