‘Antimicrobials’ or ‘Antimicrobial agents’ are medicines which kill or inhibit the growth of germs and are used in treating infectious diseases. These include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, antiparasitics and disinfectants.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the dangerous ability of infectious disease agents to survive and endure attacks by antimicrobials. The antibiotic medicine to which they were previously sensitive becomes less and less effective causing persistence and the worsening of infectious diseases.

Every infection starts with a germ — bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that may be transmitted through different means (Inhalation, Ingestion, Person-to-Person Contact and through Animal; including insects). Germs may multiply in your body even if you feel fine (proliferation). This causes a person to be sick. Antimicrobials may not always be necessary in the management of an infection. Improper and inappropriate intake of antimicrobials is dangerous and can lead to Antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Resistant germs may be transmitted to other humans and animals.

• Practice regular hand washing and proper hygiene.
• Have yourself and your family vaccinated with vaccines against common
  preventable infections.
• Adapt a healthy lifestyle to boost your immune system.
• Clean your surroundings and environment.
• Cook your food thoroughly.

• Consult with your doctor early.
• Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Get plenty of rest and avoid unnecessary contact with other people.
• Eat nutritious foods.

• Use antibiotics only when prescribed.
• Take the correct dose of antibiotics at the prescribed time.
• Take the antibiotic as directed by the physician.
• Always finish your prescribed treatment regimen.
• Never share or use leftover antibiotics.

Should you have further inquiries, please get in touch with the DOH Pharmaceutical Division at 8651-7800 loc. 1313 or email at amr.secretariat@gmail.com