Health government officials led by Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr Cleopa Mailu, November 13, 2017.[Photo/MoH]The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr Cleopa Mailu launched the World Antibiotic Resistance Awareness Week at the Kenyatta National Hospital on Monday.Research shows that a continued rise in antimicrobial resistance globally lead to 10 million people dying every year and 3 percent reduction in GDP by 2050.According to Dr. Mailu because of the increasing levels of international travel and trade, antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to global public health, food security and development.The CS noted that in Kenya the increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance among infections is contributing most to human disease nationally, being reported in our hospitals and communities.A recent study done in March 2016 showed that Kenya is already experiencing high levels of antibiotic resistance, including high rates of resistance for respiratory, enteric and hospital acquired infections, which indicates that many available antimicrobial regimens such as penicillin and contrimoxalzole are unlikely to be effective against common infections.In recognition of this threat, the CS revealed that the Ministries of Health and Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries have embarked on a process to consolidate efforts to implement sustainable measures to mitigate any further emergence and spread of Antimicrobial Resistance.Using this one-health approach, the two Ministries have jointly developed the Policy and National Action Plan on Prevention and Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance 2017-2022. The policy aims to reduce the burden of AMR and promote prudent use of antimicrobial agents to ensure that there is continued successful treatment and prevention of microbial diseases by ensuring that effective, quality and safe antimicrobial are accessible to all who need them.Dr. Mailu was accompanied by the Principal Secretary for State Department of Livestock Andrew Tumur.

Is there a story unfolding in your community? Let Hivisasa know