17-Jan-2023: Antimicrobial-resistant gonorrhea outbreak has hit Kenya
Gonorrhea
- A sexually transmitted infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Symptoms: Can be asymptomatic, can infect genitals, rectum, throat
- Risks: Infertility, increased risk of HIV infection
- Treatment: Antibiotics, but resistance is increasing
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
- Ability of microorganisms to resist antimicrobial drugs
- Causes: Poor infection control, overuse of antibiotics, genetic mutations
- Impacts: Prolonged illness, disability, death, increased healthcare costs
- Recognition in India: National Health Policy 2017 & Ministry of Health & Family Welfare highlights the problem of antimicrobial resistance and calls for effective action to address it.
Government Initiatives
- National Programme on AMR containment (2012)
- National Action Plan on AMR (2017)
- AMR Surveillance and Research Network (2013)
- Antibiotic Stewardship Program (ICMR)
World Health Organization (WHO)
- Gonorrhea: Second-most common sexually transmitted disease
- AMR: Threatens healthcare systems, sustainability
Prevention
- Limiting use of antimicrobial drugs
- Improving infection control
- Investing in research and development
- Promoting international cooperation