Self Medication: Weakening Barriers to Antimicrobial Resistance

Self-medication is defined as the use of medication by a patient on his own initiative or on the advice of a pharmacist or a layperson, instead of consulting a medical practitioner.

Described by the World Health Organisation as the broader term for resistance in different types of microorganisms and encompasses resistance to antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic and antifungal drugs; antimicrobial resistance is a rising issue of global importance. It is a global peril.

The emphasis for this year’s Antibiotic Awareness Week, a campaign by the World Health Organization, is learning to handle antibiotics with care. The message is clear- preventive measures such as regular hand washing, preparing food hygienically and keeping vaccinations up to date are safer options than the injudicious use of antibiotics.

Ask yourself this-what is the cost of this unprescribed pill? A world where simple and major medical procedures would become risky because of the undue and unjust use of antibiotics.

Don't be a culprit, learn how to stay safe here- http://blog.ebolaalert.org/self-medication-weakening-barriers-to-antimicrobial-resistance/

#AntibioticAwarenessWeek

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