ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IS INVISIBLE. I AM NOT.
DO YOU KNOW WHAT ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE (AMR) IS?
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines. As a result, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective. It is fueled by the excessive and inappropriate use of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and on plants.
AND YOU KNOW WHAT?
- It means that common infections become harder – if not impossible – to treat.
- It can happen to anyone, anywhere. Even if you’re young and healthy.
- It claims 1.3 million lives every year.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
- Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a certified health professional.
- Never use leftover antibiotics.
- Never share antibiotics with others.
- Prevent infections by regularly washing your hands, minimizing contact with sick individuals, and staying up to date with your vaccinations.
THE STORY OF BRANDON JAKA
Brandon, born with HIV, was initiated on treatment at eight. Antimicrobial resistance later compromised his condition due to drug-resistant HIV, resulting in treatment failure. He had to take second-line treatment, which is more potent in side effects in some cases. Brandon now champions AMR awareness to advocate for responsible antibiotic use.
THE STORY OF VANESSA CARTER
Vanessa, involved in a car Accident at 25, faced multiple surgeries and contracted a highly resistant bacterial infection called MRSA during her hospital stay. After struggling for three years with recurring infections that weren’t responding to antibiotics and damaged large portions of her face, she used her patient experience and became an international advocate for other AMR patients.
THE STORY OF ELLA BALASA
Ella, living with cystic fibrosis, experiences recurrent infections and resulting significant lung damage due to thickened mucus. Her extended hospital stays involve antibiotics which are losing effectiveness, creating a constant fear of drug-resistant infections. Leveraging her biology background, Ella advocates for patient-driven healthcare solutions.