@article{Godman_B-2021_34676,
title = {Strategies to improve antimicrobial utilization with a special focus on developing countries},
author = {Godman, B. and Egwuenu, A. and Haque, M. and Malande, O. and Schellack, N. and Kumar, S. and Saleem, Z. and Sneddon, J. and Hoxha, I. and Islam, S. and Mwita, J. and Nascimento, R. and Godói, I. and Lum Niba, L. and Amu, A. and Acolatse, J. and Incoom, R. and Sefah, I. and Opanga, S. and Kurdi, A. and Chikowe, I. and Khuluza, F. and Kibuule, D. and Ogunleye, O. and Olalekan, A. and Markovic-Pekovic, V. and Meyer, J. and Alfadl, A. and Phuong, T. and Kalungia, A. and Campbell, S. and Pisana, A. and Wale, J. and Seaton, R.},
month = {jun},
year = {2021},
abstract = {Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a high priority across countries as it increases mor-bidity, mortality and costs. Concerns with AMR have resulted in multiple initiatives interna-tionally, nationally and regionally to enhance appropriate antibiotic utilization across sectors to reduce AMR, with the overuse of antibiotics exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Effec-tively tackling AMR is crucial for all countries. Principally a narrative review of ongoing activi-ties across sectors was undertaken to improve antimicrobial use and address issues with vaccines including COVID-19. Point prevalence surveys have been successful in hospitals to identify areas for quality improvement programs, principally centering on antimicrobial stewardship pro-grams. These include reducing prolonged antibiotic use to prevent surgical site infections. Multiple activities centering on education have been successful in reducing inappropriate pre-scribing and dispensing of antimicrobials in ambulatory care for essentially viral infections such as acute respiratory infections. It is imperative to develop new quality indicators for ambulatory care given current concerns, and instigate programs with clear public health messaging to re-duce misinformation, essential for pandemics. Regular access to effective treatments is needed to reduce resistance to treatments for HIV, malaria and tuberculosis. Key stakeholder groups can instigate multiple initiatives to reduce AMR. These need to be followed-up.},
volume = {11},
issue = {6},
journal = {Life},
publisher = {MDPI},
url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/life11060528},
}
