AMR Surveillance on Zoonotic Bacteria is Launched
Surveillance on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Zoonotic Bacteria in Ethiopia has been launched on a workshop held on June 24, 2024 in the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI).
EPHI’s Deputy Director General, Dr. Getachew Tollera indicated that the objective of the surveillance is to conduct a comprehensive surveillance of AMR in zoonotic bacteria in Ethiopia, with the aim of promoting the
One Health approach and fostering a better understanding of the extent and patterns of antibiotic resistance in animal products, consumers/food handlers and environment.
AMR is a maior global public health challenge and continues to be one of the most significant of the 21st century. High risks of AMR to commonly used antimicrobial agents have been reported in East Africa. In Ethiopia, like many resource-limited settings, various reports indicate a considerable misuse of antimicrobial agents by health care providers, unskilled practitioner’s animal husbandry operations, and abuse of veterinary drug vendors at the retail markets.
”However, we are not without hope. Through the principles of the One Health approach, we have the opportunity to tackle this challenge head-on. By fostering collaboration between the human
health, animal health, and environmental sectors, we can develop a comprehensive and coordinated response to antimicrobial resistance,” said Dr. Getachew.
According to EPHI’s Bacterial, Parasaitic and Zoonotic Diseases Research (BPZDR) Directorate Director, Dr. Geremew Tassew collecting robust data, analyzing trends, and sharing information, the scope of the problem will be better understood and identify targeted interventions.
A presentation titled – ”AMR Resistance Surveillance in Zoonotic Bacteria in Ethiopia: “One Health” in action” was also presented on the workshop by Dr. Yimer Mulugeta who is a team lead in the BPZDR.