As Elani van Zyl, Sales and Marketing Manager for Pharma Dynamics’ Hospital Division, explains, “When common infections become difficult or even impossible to treat, it leads to prolonged illness and higher mortality rates.” She emphasises that without swift intervention, the spread of drug-resistant infections will intensify, placing further strain on South Africa’s already overstretched health system.

The scale of AMR is starkly reflected in recent statistics. A study from the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) Project, published in The Lancet, highlights a worrying trend: antibiotic resistance has been directly responsible for at least one million deaths annually since 1990, with this figure rising. By 2050, experts predict that AMR could account for 39 million deaths globally if left unaddressed – equivalent to three lives lost every minute.

South Africa is no exception to this crisis. The country’s challenges are compounded by high rates of infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, which increasingly exhibit resistance to standard treatments. According to van Zyl, South Africa, like many low- and middle-income countries, bears a disproportionate AMR burden, largely due to the misuse or overuse of antibiotics and widespread use in agriculture.

In response to the escalating threat, WAAW calls on healthcare professionals and the general public to enhance their understanding of AMR and its implications.

“Education is key,” says van Zyl. “Every South African – from healthcare workers and farmers to ordinary citizens – must recognise the role they play in reducing AMR risks, whether through responsible antibiotic use or infection prevention practices.”

Advocacy is also vital. The WHO and national health agencies are urging stronger political commitment and greater resource allocation to combat AMR. Van Zyl adds, “Without concrete government support and policy reform, efforts to fight AMR will fall short.” In September 2024, the United Nations General Assembly convened a high-level meeting on AMR, setting the stage for renewed dialogue and commitments worldwide.

The call to action also stresses the urgency of immediate, sustained efforts. Healthcare professionals and institutions are encouraged to implement and strengthen infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, including new vaccines, improved access to water and sanitation, and increased investments in diagnostics and training across health systems.

AMR’s effects in South Africa extend beyond health, with serious economic consequences. Treating drug-resistant infections is costlier, often requiring longer hospital stays and greater demand for diagnostics.

The agricultural sector is also at risk. Overuse of antibiotics in livestock farming accelerates resistance, affecting both animal and human health. Ensuring veterinary practices align with AMR-reduction strategies is crucial to preventing the spread of resistant strains across species and to humans.

The National Department of Health has been working on a National Action Plan to address AMR, focusing on strengthening surveillance systems, improving diagnostic capabilities, and raising public awareness. However, van Zyl believes more must be done to close the gaps. “With drug resistance increasingly threatening every community, collective action is essential. The success of South Africa’s response depends on the involvement of all sectors – government, healthcare, agriculture, and the general public.”

The public also has a significant role to play in combating AMR. “Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional,” van Zyl advises. “It’s important to complete the full course of treatment to prevent resistant bacteria from developing.” Simple hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, can also help reduce the spread of infections.

As World Antimicrobial Awareness Week sounds the alarm on AMR, every South African is encouraged to act. Through increased awareness, stronger policies, and personal responsibility, South Africa can help stem the tide of antimicrobial resistance, ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.