Pakistan Faces a Growing Threat from Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance is no longer a distant global concern—it’s a rapidly intensifying crisis within Pakistan’s own healthcare system. As highlighted in the Health Herald article, the misuse and overprescription of antibiotics have led to a surge in drug-resistant infections, threatening to undo decades of medical progress.

What’s Driving the Crisis?

  • Overuse of Antibiotics: Antibiotics are often prescribed for viral infections like the flu, where they have no effect, accelerating resistance.
  • Self-Medication: Easy access to antibiotics without prescriptions fuels misuse.
  • Agricultural Practices: Antibiotics used in livestock and poultry contribute to resistant strains entering the human population.
  • Lack of Regulation: Weak enforcement of pharmaceutical standards allows unchecked distribution and marketing.

Consequences of Resistance

  • Harder-to-Treat Infections: Common illnesses like UTIs, pneumonia, and sepsis are becoming more difficult to manage.
  • Increased Mortality: Drug-resistant infections are linked to higher death rates, especially in vulnerable populations.
  • Strained Healthcare System: Longer hospital stays, expensive treatments, and limited drug options burden both patients and providers.
  • Threat to Modern Medicine: Procedures like surgeries and chemotherapy rely on effective antibiotics to prevent infections.

The Urgent Need for Action

Experts warn that Pakistan must adopt a One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Key recommendations include:

  • Public Awareness Campaigns to educate citizens on proper antibiotic use
  • Stricter Prescription Protocols to prevent unnecessary antibiotic use
  • Surveillance Systems to monitor resistance patterns
  • Investment in Research for new antibiotics and alternative therapies