Antibiotic resistance major health concern

THE overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance which is a major public health concern.

This is according to Elani van Zyl, Critical Care Product manager for generic medicine provider, Pharma Dynamics, who said using antibiotics when they are not needed can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

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“Antibiotics can have side effects, and taking them when not necessary can expose you to unnecessary risks. Some people may experience allergic reactions or digestive problems when taking antibiotics. When antibiotics are used inappropriately, they can also disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body, including the gut microbiome, leading to yeast or other fungal infections,” she said.

Misconceptions about antibiotic use

She cleared up misconceptions and myths about antibiotic use, which she said can contribute to the inappropriate or overuse of these medications. Pharma Dynamics reveals that among the most common public misconceptions is that a sore throat can be cured with antibiotics.

Van Zyl adds that an acute sore throat is one of the most common concerns patients consult doctors for.

Based on a study conducted across 13 countries, including South Africa, more than 60% of South Africans believed antibiotics could help. “However, antibiotics are not always effective at treating a sore throat since most throat infections are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Antibiotics are designed to treat bacterial infections, not viral infections.”

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She explained that most throat infections run their course without medical intervention, and most people recover within a week or so as their immune system fights off the virus.

Van Zyl said healthcare providers can help determine whether the sore throat is viral or bacterial through clinical evaluation and, if necessary, diagnostic tests like throat swabs.

“When bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, it means that infections caused by these bacteria become more difficult, and in some cases, impossible to treat. This can lead to prolonged illnesses, increased mortality rates and a higher risk of complications from infections,” concludes Van Zyl.