Dr..Ahmed Basha, a distinguished scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) in Visakhapatnam, presented an engaging seminar during World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week (November 18-24). This international event brought attention to the pressing challenge of AMR, which poses a significant risk to public health, agriculture, and animal welfare. Sriprakash, one of the top Cambridge schools in Visakhapatnam, takes pride in hosting such a meaningful seminar, reflecting its dedication to raising awareness and educating the community about vital health issues like AMR. Through initiatives like this, Sriprakash plays a crucial role in promoting knowledge and public health education in the area.
AMR refers to a situation where pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, are able to develop resistance against the drugs that are meant to kill or control them. It makes infections challenging to treat and leads to more extended illness periods, higher deaths, and increased health care expenses. The problem of AMR is worsening due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in both human medicine and farming. Dr. Basha warned that if AMR continues to grow unchecked, even minor infections could become deadly.
Dr. Basha spoke on the theme of World AMR Awareness Week 2024, "Educate. Advocate. Act now." The theme was put across by emphasizing the fact that people need to take immediate action. He reiterated the point that education would raise awareness and help the people know how to avoid the situation of AMR. When the public, health professionals, and policy-makers are taught about the proper use of antibiotics, we will limit the spread of resistant microbes. Better hygiene, sanitation, and vaccinations to prevent infections and dependency on antibiotics are also part of education.
Dr. Basha also emphasized the participation of animal health experts, farmers, and young people in the fight against AMR. He said misuse of antibiotics in animals contributes to AMR, mostly in farming. The way farmers use antibiotics must change, and they should develop better farming practices and look at vaccines. He further noted that young people will be tomorrow's leaders and innovators; by educating them, we will make sure they are well-equipped to address the problem of AMR effectively.
Dr. Basha’s seminar was a call to action for the public to not only recognize AMR but to engage in initiatives to combat it. He encouraged everyone to adopt practices that support the responsible use of antibiotics, including avoiding self-medication, strictly adhering to medical guidance, and completing prescribed antibiotic courses to prevent resistance. Dr. Basha’s comments only helped reinforce the view that AMR is not just a medical issue but a social concern that requires concerted efforts from all sectors. Only through joint efforts can we hope to address the risks this health crisis presents . His message was clear: AMR is an urgent
Dr Ahmed Basha highlights the importance of antibiotical resistance at the World AMR Awareness Week Seminar
matter that calls for immediate and sustained efforts from all to safeguard health and preserve antibiotic efficacy for future generations.