Operation AMRITH

Why is it in the news?

The Kerala government launches Operation ‘AMRITH’ to address the growing concern of anti-microbial resistance.
AMRITH, an acronym for Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention for Total Health, reflects the state’s commitment to combatting this health challenge.

More about the news

Initiated by the Kerala Drug Control Department.
Its primary Objective is to mitigate the misuse of antibiotics.
Its operational goal is to conduct unannounced inspections at retail pharmacies to identify over-the-counter sales of antibiotics without proper prescriptions.
Pharmacies mandated to maintain accurate records of antibiotic sales, strictly adhere to prescription regulations, and prominently display a poster emphasizing ‘antibiotics not sold without doctor’s prescription.’
The strategy follows a multi-sectoral approach, aligning with India’s National Action Plan on Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR).

Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR)

Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR)	About
Definition	– Refers to the ability of bacteria and microbes to resist drugs intended to inhibit or kill them.
Global Impact	– Considered a ‘silent pandemic,’ responsible for approximately 5 million deaths worldwide in 2019.
Causes of AMR	– Overuse of Antibiotics: Excessive and inappropriate use contributes to the development of resistant strains.
	– Lack of Access to Clean Water and Sanitation: Poor sanitation conditions exacerbate the spread of infections.
	– Incomplete Treatment: Patients not completing prescribed antibiotic courses.
	– Inadequate Infection Control in Hospitals: Poor management of infections contributes to the spread of resistant strains.
Steps Taken by Indian Government to Control AMR	– National Action Plan for AMR: Comprehensive strategy at the national level.
	– Delhi Declaration on AMR: Inter-ministerial consensus committing various ministries to support containment efforts.
	– Antibiotic Stewardship Program (AMSP): Launched by ICMR to prevent antibiotic overuse in hospitals.
	– Ban on Colistin Use: Prohibition on the use of colistin as a growth promoter.
	– ‘One Health’ Concept Advancement: Integrated approach considering the health of people, animals, and the environment.

AMIGOS IAS