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Whenever children get sick, one of the first reactions of parents is to give treat their illness with antibiotics. However, this has led to a reduction in its effectiveness. The hidden danger of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), often called the silent pandemic, is a significant emerging threat to global health. Currently, there’s a concerning rise in infections resistant to treatment, especially among newborns and children. India tops global human antibiotic consumption, standing at 10.7 units per person, a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. Overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics, taking antibiotics without a prescription, lack of awareness, and limited use of diagnostic tests, all worsen India’s antimicrobial resistance issue. Antibiotic resistance in children is an even bigger concern.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of medications designed to kill or inhibit their growth. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to the acceleration of this process. In children, who are often vulnerable to infections, the implications of antibiotic resistance are
particularly worrisome.
Several issues related to pediatric healthcare have been identified, including the insufficient development of antibiotic drugs specifically designed for children, a limited number of clinical studies focusing on pediatric populations, and, consequently, a lack of pediatric-specific data. Additionally, there is a restricted range of drug options available to treat multidrug-resistant (MDR) pediatric infections. The issue of misusing or overusing antibiotics in pediatric care is also recognized as a concern.
Antibiotics are frequently prescribed for viral infections, against which they are ineffective. The misuse of antibiotics for conditions like the common cold or flu contributes to the development of resistance.
Not completing a prescribed antibiotic course allows some bacteria to survive and develop resistance. Parents may cease treatment once a child’s symptoms improve, unaware of the importance of completing the full course.
Antibiotics are widely used in livestock for growth promotion and disease prevention. The transfer of resistant bacteria from animals to humans through food consumption is a significant factor in antibiotic resistance.
Limited research and development of new antibiotics contribute to a lack of effective alternatives. This scarcity forces healthcare providers to rely on existing antibiotics, fostering resistance.
Implementing antibiotic stewardship programs in healthcare settings involves educating healthcare providers, parents, and caregivers about the appropriate use of antibiotics. This includes avoiding unnecessary prescriptions for viral infections.
Raising awareness among parents and caregivers about the consequences of antibiotic overuse is crucial. Informing them about the difference between viral and bacterial infections helps in discouraging the unnecessary use of antibiotics.
Strengthening surveillance systems to monitor antibiotic use and resistance patterns provides valuable data for public health interventions. Identifying trends helps in tailoring strategies to specific regions or populations.
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PERSONALISE NOWEncouraging research and development in the field of antibiotics is essential. Investing in the discovery of new drugs and alternative therapies can help combat resistance and ensure a robust arsenal of treatments.
Also Read: Popping antibiotics frequently? Here’s what you need to know
Promoting cleanliness and sanitation, including improved access to clean water and effective handwashing practices, is crucial in reducing infections. Emphasizing hygiene significantly lowers infection rates and counters the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in effectively managing antibiotic resistance in children. It is imperative for them to educate themselves by understanding the proper use of antibiotics and the significance of completing prescribed courses.
Seeking professional advice is essential—consulting healthcare providers for accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations while avoiding self-prescribing or requesting antibiotics for viral infections. Additionally, promoting good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, becomes a proactive measure to reduce the risk of infections and, subsequently, the need for antibiotics.
Rising antibiotic resistance in children is a complex issue that demands a multifaceted approach. By addressing the root causes and promoting responsible antibiotics we can take steps to ensure a healthier future for our children.
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Dr Rajiv Uttam is the director and HOD or pediatrics, pediatric critical care, and emergency, Medanta in Gurugram. Dr Rajiv Uttam is one of the senior most pediatric intensivists and pulmonologists in the country. He was trained and practiced in leading hospital in the UK for 12 years.He has extensive experience of nearly 4 decades in treating sick children due to various causes. He has been instrumental in setting up pediatric intensive care departments (PICU) and pulmonology in major corporate hospitals in Delhi. He has been a founding member and the vice chancellor of the pediatric critical college of the Indian academy of pediatrics (IAP). ...Read More
