1. What is the biggest communication challenge related to AMR and inappropriate antimicrobial usage (AMU) in Africa?
AMR is often considered as a “foreign” challenge and people in Africa seem not to be able to relate to it and governments do not consider it a priority. So, communication should be targeted such that people could see that AMR is a present danger and that they could be involved in solving the challenge.
2. What is the best approach to communicate about other antimicrobials (antifungal, antiparasitic, antiviral, pesticides), and not only antibiotics? As viruses, fungi and parasites can also be resistant to medicines commonly used to treat them, and impacting health and food systems, how do we communicate about these issues in addition to antibiotic resistant bacteria?
Communication should reflect the fact that indiscriminate use of medicines for humans and animals should be discouraged. Also, growth promoting products for livestock and any other treatments should only be used when prescribed by appropriate professionals and as prescribed.
3. How can we get the topic of AMR included more often in the media? How do we ensure the visibility of AMR amongst other “hot topics”?
Dedicated time for discussing AMR issues with compelling audio-visual aids and locally generated and relevant data in print and electronic media.
4. What communication channels, methods or mechanisms are more suitable and will have the greatest impact at field level in African countries?
Agriculture extension workers should be trained to deliver accurate AMR information in their routine activities. Physical contact with end-users (livestock farmers, food producers, sellers/market groups and the general society). Academics should be trained to be AMR Champions and engage with their local communities through farm visits, market visits, radio and television interviews. Professional groups (doctors, nurses, pharmacists, veterinarians) should enlighten their members on AMR issues so that they can limit excessive AMU and ensure proper antimicrobial stewardship.
5. Which group of stakeholders do you think should be considered as priority for targeted key messages aiming at raising awareness on excessive AMU and AMR?
a. Those prescribing antibiotics: doctors, nurses,
b. End-users: livestock farmers, veterinarians, doctors and primary healthcare providers
6. At national, regional and continental levels, who to do think should take leadership and responsibility for awareness and advocacy activities on AMU and AMR?
Multidisciplinary AMU and AMR committees should be constituted at national, regional and continental levels and the teams should direct the awareness and advocacy.
Dr. Yinka Somorin