Journalists with resource persons during the training
By KNA
The Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS), alongside partners, has called on journalists to help educate communities about the dangers of misusing over-the-counter antibiotics.
The initiative is vital in addressing the rising threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), which, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), was responsible for 1.27 million deaths globally in 2019.
During the training session for journalists in Uasin Gishu County, participants learnt strategies for promoting responsible antimicrobial use and developing actionable interventions to mitigate risks associated with AMR.
Oscar Okumu, the Head of Region for KRCS in North Rift, underscored the importance of media involvement in the AMR conversation.
“Partnership is key to sensitising communities. The media can highlight innovative ideas to raise awareness and effectively combat AMR,” he noted.
Dr. Paul Olale, Project Officer for AMR, highlighted that misuse of antibiotics threatens the effectiveness of common treatments, warning that without action, we may face an era where routine infections become untreatable.
He described AMR as a silent pandemic and one of the greatest threats to public health worldwide.
Dr. Olale urged journalists to creatively package information, including using vernacular languages, to ensure communities understand how to curb AMR effectively.
He stressed the importance of seeking prescriptions from certified healthcare providers to prevent medication misuse.
The need for a multisectoral approach was also underscored, as AMR affects human, animal, and environmental health. Strengthening healthcare systems with effective diagnostic measures is essential for evidence-based treatment.
As the voice of the community, journalists are key to raising awareness about AMR, which begins at the local level. Long hospital stays and increased healthcare costs are just a few consequences of AMR, highlighting the urgency of the issue.
Mr. Silah Kosgei, Director of the Governor’s Press, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including farmers and healthcare providers.
Together, sustained cooperation is essential for effective antimicrobial stewardship, protecting both current and future generations from the impacts of AMR.
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