Nigeria is struggling with a severe Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) problem, as highlighted by alarming findings of drug-resistant bacteria in livestock and insufficient treatments for infections. Factors contributing to AMR include over-the-counter antibiotic sales and substandard medicines. The economic impact is significant, with potential GDP declines. Initiatives are underway to improve AMR surveillance and public awareness, but rigorous regulation and cooperation are essential to address the crisis thoroughly.
In Nigeria, the urgent need to tackle Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is highlighted by veterinary researcher Dr. Matthew Chibuzor at the Karu abattoir. His alarming findings show multidrug-resistant Salmonella and E. coli strains in meat and workers, which pose a serious health risk as these bacteria can enter kitchens and hospitals, rendering common antibiotics ineffective.
The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies AMR as a growing global threat, responsible for 1.27 million deaths in 2019 alone, with projections of up to 10 million annually by 2050 if unaddressed. Low- to middle-income countries like Nigeria, with inadequate healthcare and high disease burdens, face particularly dire consequences.
For families, the impact of AMR can be devastating. Mary Goma recounts her six-year-old son’s struggle with antibiotic-resistant typhoid fever, emphasizing a widespread healthcare issue in Nigeria. As the country battles high infectious disease rates, the effectiveness of available treatments is severely compromised.
Key factors contributing to AMR in Nigeria include the over-the-counter purchase of antibiotics without prescriptions, early discontinuation of treatments, and frequent use of counterfeit drugs. A significant percentage of antibiotics in the market are either falsified or substandard, exacerbating the issue.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) estimates over 20,000 deaths annually are related to AMR and warns that unchecked resistance could cost the country billions in healthcare and lost productivity.
Dr. Samuel Olutuche highlights the economic implications of AMR—patients requiring expensive last-resort treatments while many cannot afford them, leading to unnecessary fatalities. The World Bank predicts a potential 3.8% decline in Nigeria’s GDP by 2050 due to AMR.
In response, Management Sciences for Health (MSH) has received funding to enhance Nigeria’s AMR data capacities through a ‘One Health’ approach, focusing on improving laboratory systems and antibiotic stewardship. The Fleming Fund supports global AMR surveillance efforts, including Nigeria’s response.
Despite international assistance, Nigeria struggles with regulating antibiotic sales, as fake products still circulate. There’s a pressing need for public awareness and improved hospital diagnostics to timely detect infections.
Dr. Jide Idris urges stricter policies for antibiotic sales and improved surveillance to combat AMR. Grassroots initiatives in communities also play a vital role, including educating the public on antibiotic dangers and promoting alternative livestock treatments.
Public education campaigns are crucial to raise awareness about responsible antibiotic use, while researchers advocate for collaboration across sectors to strengthen regulations. Continuous surveillance will help adapt treatment guidelines and monitor resistance effectively.
Dr. Chibuzor’s reflection emphasizes the widespread implications of AMR, asserting that without proactive measures at all levels, Nigeria risks making even minor infections deadly for its population, as the threat of AMR permeates through food, healthcare, and public practices.
Nigeria is facing a critical challenge with Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), manifesting in the form of ineffective treatments and increasing healthcare costs. The collaboration among health authorities, community initiatives, and international support is essential to curb this rising threat. Without substantial changes in regulations, public awareness, and the healthcare system, the future could hold severe consequences for both individual health and the economy as a whole.
Original Source: nannews.ng
