By Abah (Martial pen)
武术笔
(wǔshù bǐ)
Imagine a bustling city filled with superheroes. Each one has a special power to fight off evil germs and keep us healthy. But there’s a problem, some germs are sneaky and have learned how to resist the powers of our superheroes(antimicrobials). This is what we call Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
Antimicrobials are substances that are capable of killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, which include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Antibiotics are a type of antimicrobial specifically designed to combat bacterial infections, while antivirals target viruses, antifungals tackle fungi, and antiparasitics combat parasites. In the context of this article, bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are the trouble makers.
Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I care about these tiny troublemakers?” Well, buckle up, because I am about to tell you why AMR is a big deal and how YOU can be a superhero in this fight!
The Great Antibiotic Adventure
Think of antibiotics as our trusty sidekicks. They help our superheroes defeat the germs that make us sick. But, just like candy to kids, if we use them too much, germs can get used to them and become antibiotic-resistant.
Picture this: our superheroes, armed with ordinary peashooters against now super-powered germs. This means common infections become super tough to treat. Suddenly, the once-easy battles become epic showdowns, and our trusty antibiotics don’t work like they used to!
You might be wondering, “What can I do?” Fear not, because every one of us can be a superhero in this fight against AMR!
We can do this by making sure the following are adhered to without compromise:
Clean hands: The World Health Organization emphasizes the critical importance of implementing adequate infection prevention and control measures as a key role in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Washing of hands regularly with soap, this simple act is like putting up a force field against germs. It keeps them from spreading and becoming stronger.
Don’t demand antibiotics for every little sniffle and sneeze. Remember, antibiotics are for bacterial infections, not viruses like the common cold or flu. Always insist for an Antmicrobial Sensitivity Test(AST).
Vaccination visionary: Keep up with your vaccinations. They’re like giving our superheroes an extra power boost, making them even more effective against the bad germs.
Avoid leftovers: If you’re prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as your doctor says. Don’t stop early, even if you’re feeling better. It ensures all the germs are defeated, leaving no survivors to become resistant.
Eco-friendly environment enforcement: Properly dispose of unused antibiotics. Don’t let them end up in our water systems where they can create super germs in nature.
Imagine a future where our superheroes are mighty and the germs are no match for them. That’s the world we’re fighting for! Each one of us plays a crucial role in this epic showdown against AMR.
Remember, it’s not just about us, it’s about future generations too! By being a responsible antibiotic user, you’re setting the stage for a healthier, stronger world.
So, let’s suit up, dear Zikites, UItes, and become the champions of a world where antibiotics always have the upper hand. Together, we can make sure the Antibiotic Apocalypse remains nothing more than a funny story we tell our grandkids!
Stay healthy and super-powered!
