Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global problem affecting humans, the environment, and animals, ranking among the top 10 challenges faced by humanity. During EuroAsia 2024, held recently in Bengaluru, that witnessed participation from leading critical care specialists, experts shared concern over AMR and its increasing prevalence in India.

Leading critical care experts emphasised on the need for strengthening fight against AMR and adopting holistic approach of ‘One Health’ for improving antimicrobial stewardship. To effectively address AMR, adoption of a multifaceted approach is crucial. This includes implementation of surveillance and tracking systems,  antibiotic stewardship, and infection prevention and control measures. 

Addressing the media, Dr Bharat Jagiasi, General Secretary of Indian Society of Critical Care Medicine (ISCCM) said “The resistance to antibiotics is leading to longer hospital stays, longer treatment and mortality. There is a need to aggressively strengthen the fight against AMR and adopt One Health stewardship practices to tackle the global AMR challenge. Implementing effective public campaigns can educate publicon antimicrobials prescribed. It is necessary to improve and strengthen hygiene measures and prevent the spread of infections. Antibiotic resistance has accelerated the spread of resistant bacteria known as superbugs, which will put an immense strain on health systems and countries economy, which can result in increased hospitalisations and deaths."

Prof. Dr Pradip Bhattacharya, President, ISCCM stated, "The One Health concept highlights the critical need to control antibiotic consumption. Data suggests that 1.2 million deaths in India are due to antimicrobial resistance, with an estimated 10 million deaths by 2050." 

Dr Srinivas Samavedam, President, Elect, ISCCM said, “Multiple stakeholders and each one has a role to play in AMR control. After COVID-19 specially Stewardship is needed which is the right drug, right time, right bug and right dose. The patient needs 36 to 48 hours for any antibiotic to be effective, a little trust is required from the patients. However, the patients take a 2nd opinion and change dosage. Pharmacies are also required to adhere to the norms and putting a red strip on a medicine means that it should be sold with a prescription. It is also the industry’s responsibility to sell the highest level of antibiotics to the right audience."