Awareness Of Antimicrobial Resistance Research Articles

Healthcare workers' views on antibiotic prescribing and stewardship during the COVID-19 pandemic at an NHS Foundation Trust in England: a cross-sectional survey

Abstract Introduction Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rapidly escalating global health challenge, projected to cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050.1 In response, the UK Government developed a five-year national action plan, 'Confronting Antimicrobial Resistance 2024 to 2029,' aimed at optimising antimicrobial use and implementing antimicrobial stewardship.2 The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the healthcare system, jeopardising public health and causing millions of deaths worldwide. The pandemic has exacerbated AMR due to increased antimicrobial therapy and misuse.3 Aim This study explores healthcare workers’ (HCWs) views towards antibiotic prescribing, AMS and AMR during the COVID-19 pandemic in a UK secondary care setting. Methods This cross-sectional study employed an online questionnaire survey conducted at an NHS Foundation Trust in the East of England, targeting doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. The total eligible participants comprised 5,636 doctors, 2,140 nurses, and 206 pharmacists. Data collection was carried out using Qualtrics XM from 12 June to 13 September 2023. Inclusion criteria required healthcare workers (HCWs) to be adults aged 25 or older, registered with relevant professional bodies, and employed during the pandemic. Data analysis involved both descriptive statistics and qualitative methods to interpret participants’ open-ended responses to the question, “What lessons have been learnt during the COVID-19 pandemic?” This study was registered under ISRCTN number 14825813 and received ethical approval from the University of Hertfordshire Ethics and Health Research Authority (HRA) (REC reference number 22/EM/0161). The Citizens Senate reviewed the study protocol to ensure public and patient involvement. Results A total of 23 HCWs completed the survey, including 12 pharmacists, nine doctors, and two nurses. The survey included an open-text section where respondents shared lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among pharmacists, 75% (9 out of 12) identified inappropriate antibiotic use without clinical justification as a significant issue, and 67% (8 out of 12) reported an increase in healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). Additionally, 83% (10 out of 12) noted the positive impact of technology platforms and antibiotic reviews on implementing effective and sustainable AMS. Among doctors, 89% (8 out of 9) emphasised the need for reliable information dissemination, observing that social media often overshadowed evidence-based guidelines. Additionally, 78% (7 out of 9) stressed the importance of staying informed about resistance patterns and antibiotic prescribing trends. All nurses highlighted the significance of AMR awareness and reported that mental fatigue affected decision-making during the pandemic. Discussion/Conclusion This study highlights the essential role of technology platforms in enhancing antimicrobial stewardship practices and the necessity of disseminating reliable information to counter misinformation. The pandemic highlighted the need for clear guidelines and robust communication strategies to support clinical practices. However, this study has limitations, including a small sample size of 23 participants, which may affect the generalisability of the findings. Future research should include larger, more diverse samples to validate these findings and assess specific AMS interventions. The study also revealed the importance of resilient AMS implementation to optimise antibiotic use and improve patient outcomes. Achieving this requires ongoing AMS education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and adaptive strategies to effectively mitigate antimicrobial resistance.

The Awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance Among Adult Population in an Urban Setting of Rawalpindi

O Objective: To determine the association of various aspects of antimicrobial resistance awareness and socio-demographic determinants among residents of Rawalpindi. Study Design: Cross-sectional analytical study. Place and Duration of Study: Rawalpindi Cantonment, Pakistan, from Jan to Dec 2021. Methodology: A validated (World Health Organization) multi-country questionnaire was completed by a total of 400 participants, aged 16 years and older, by using two-stage sampling technique. The relationship between social and dependent variables was analyzed using chi-square test of significance. Results: Study results showed that 53.8% of participants were aware of the term ‘antibiotic resistance’ whereas only 29.5% understood what antimicrobial resistance meant. In comparison to males, more females (65.3%) knew the term antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance awareness was higher among young adults aged 16-24 years (67.8%) than among older age groups (p=0.001). Antibiotic resistance awareness in relation to gender (p<0.001), education level (p<0.001), occupation (p<0.001) and monthly household income (p<0.001) was found statistically significant. Antibiotic resistance, according to nearly one-third of respondents (31.8%), was a problem in other countries but not in Pakistan. Conclusion: Awareness and level of understanding regarding spread of antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic resistance itself were found to be low. The study findings revealed that older adults, those with lower education and lower socioeconomic status had the least knowledge and attitudes regarding antibiotic resistance and antimicrobial resistance as compared to other groups.

Trends in Prescribing Systemic Antibiotics by Libyan Dentists and Periodontists

Antibiotic prescription is a common practice in everyday dentistry. Although antibiotics play a crucial role in managing periodontal disease, the threat of antibiotic resistance is an issue that requires more exploration. The aim of this study was to describe the patterns of prescribing systemic antibiotics treating periodontal and peri-implant diseases among Libyan dentists and periodontists. An online cross-sectional survey was designed to investigate the patterns and perspectives of antibiotic prescription. Indication parameters and timing of prescription that were analysed included: chronic gingivitis, chronic periodontitis, aggressive periodontitis, acute gingival and periodontal conditions, periodontal surgery, implant placement surgery, peri-implantitis treatment, and antibiotic prophylaxis for infective endocarditis. Out of the 3000 registered Libyan dentists, only 181 participated in the study. Systemic antibiotic prescription patterns varied markedly for different periodontal or peri-implant diseases among respondents. 72.29% of the respondents reported prescribing systemic antibiotics for the treatment of aggressive periodontitis, while 34.93% prescribed them for chronic periodontitis, 10.24% for chronic gingivitis, 71.15% for periodontal surgery, 64.64% for implant placement surgery, and 67.95% for peri-implanttitis treatment. The most commonly prescribed systemic antibiotics were amoxicillin, the combination of amoxicillin with metronidazole, and clavulanate potassium. This study revealed a high prevalence of overuse and misuse of systemic antibiotics in dental practice. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity of improving antimicrobial resistance awareness among Libyan dentists and incorporating antimicrobial stewardship.

From ignorance to awareness: Quality of collaborative governance enhances public awareness of AMR

In representative democracies, the public administration plays a pivotal role in managing a myriad of public policies. While considerable knowledge exists regarding how public issue awareness influences political competition before policy enactment, its persistence in the administrative aftermath is characterized by much more uncertainty. This study addresses this puzzle within the challenging context of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) governance in Europe, posing the question: How does administrative governance shape public AMR awareness? Drawing on newly collected expert survey data from all EU member states and a recent Eurobarometer survey measuring behavioral aspects related to AMR (N = 26.502), the findings show that different aspects of administrative governance yield mixed results. Notably, there is a strong and positive relationship between the quality of collaborative governance and public awareness. These results underscore the critical role of administrative governance quality in understanding public behavior, particularly in the context of combating AMR.

Awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance and Antimicrobial Drugs Prescription Pattern in Small Animal Clinical Practice in Ogun State, Nigeria

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health challenge in veterinary and human health, leading to monitoring of resistance and promotion of responsible antimicrobial use. This survey assessed the use of antimicrobials among government veterinarians in Ogun state, Nigeria. Clinicians were requested to fill questionnaires designed to extract information on the frequency of antibiotics use, antibiotic prescription patterns and evaluation of perception on AMR and use of antibiotics with compromised efficacy in veterinary practice in the last three years. Fifty-two (52) questionnaires were administered and duly completed upon return. Data analysis showed 100% awareness of AMR with 80.8% (42/52) agreeing to have encountered AMR in the course of managing small animal cases. The tetracycline class of antibiotics 49(94.2%) was the most prescribed, followed by aminoglycosides 40(76.9%) and fluoroquinolones 35(67.3%). Empirical therapy (34/52) 65.4% is the most common treatment option among clinicians while 18 (34.6%) out of 52 clinicians performed antibiotic susceptibility testing along with laboratory diagnosis as treatment guide. Furthermore, 75.0% of the respondents affirmed administering antibiotics formulated for human use in small animal treatment. Thirty-three (63.5%) respondents administered human antimicrobials in animals according to the recommended dosage in humans. This survey identified that AMR was common in small animals in the state studied and this may be due to the irrational use of antibiotics. Promoting antimicrobial stewardship in small animal medicine therefore is paramount to mitigating antimicrobial resistance and data obtained from this study will contribute to developing evidence-based policy on the rational use of antibiotics in small animal practice in Nigeria.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Combatting Antimicrobial Resistance: Insights and Outcomes From the National Alliance of Medical Professionals on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAMP-AMR) Initiative.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global health challenge, requiring a coordinated and vigorous response. Despite numerous global and national efforts, a unified multidisciplinary approach has been missing. The National Alliance of Medical Professionals on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAMP-AMR), led by the Indian Medical Association in collaboration with key stakeholders such as NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Health, seeks to address this gap. This alliance unites 52 medical specialty organizations and associations to enhance efforts across various sectors, developing comprehensive strategies for awareness, surveillance, infection control, and optimization of antimicrobial use. The foundational meeting of NAMP-AMR on July 7, 2024, established a collaborative roadmap, promising to bolster India's efforts against AMR and support the forthcoming National Action Plan on AMR 2.0. The meeting concentrated on six key areas: improving AMR awareness and advocacy; strengthening laboratory capacities and surveillance; enhancing infection prevention and control (IPC); optimizing antimicrobial use through stricter regulations and stewardship programs; advancing AMR research and innovation; and fostering strong national and international collaborations. This initiative marks a significant advancement in combating AMR and positions India as a leader in global health efforts against this critical issue.

“It’s easier to take a pill than fix a problem:” qualitative analysis of barriers and facilitators to antimicrobial stewardship program implementation in carceral settings

BackgroundWidespread antibiotic prescribing contributes to globally emerging antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Despite stewardship recommendations by the Infectious Diseases Society of America, there is a lack of literature identifying barriers and facilitators to antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) in United States (U.S.) carceral settings.MethodsGuided by the Theoretic Domains Framework, we performed in-depth interviews with 68 key stakeholders in Massachusetts carceral settings to contextualize barriers and facilitators to ASP implementation. We recruited 32 people incarcerated in Massachusetts jails and 36 carceral clinicians, correctional officers/administrators in Massachusetts and other U.S. states, and Massachusetts community clinicians for interviews.ResultsFrom the completed semi-structured in-depth interviews, we identified seven salient themes—four barriers and three facilitators—both specific to and across stakeholder groups. Barriers included the following: (1) jail being viewed as a “dirty place” that increases the risk of infections; (2) variable awareness and knowledge of AMR and ASPs; (3) clinicians’ opposition to change and oversight of their antibiotic prescribing; (4) competing priorities taking precedence over ASP implementation. Facilitators included (5) interest in changing the narrative about carceral healthcare through ASP implementation; (6) opportunities for education about ASP and AMR; and (7) the development of systems, policies, and regulations to improve antibiotic prescribing.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first qualitative study to leverage broad criminal-legal stakeholder groups to inform the next steps in developing and implementing ASPs in carceral settings in the U.S.

Multidrug Resistance of Escherichia coli in cats and the Level of Understanding of Cat Owners on Antimicrobial Resistance

Multidrug resistance poses a global health risk to humans, animals, and the environment.The impact of this issue is so great that it has gained international attention, ranging from the rising morbidity to the mortality rate of infectious diseases in humans and animals. Because of their peculiar eliminative behavior habit of burying their waste in the ground, cats may contribute to the spread of microorganisms resistant to antibiotics. The purpose of this study was to map the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant E. coli bacteria in cats and to determine the degree of cat owners' comprehension as a risk factor for the development of antimicrobial resistance. In this investigation, 353 cat anal swab samples were found to contain E. coli. The study was carried out in 2023 between March and May. The Mueller Hilton Agar medium was used to test for multidrug resistance to beta-lactam, aminoglycoside, and tetracycline class antibiotics using the diffusion method. Using a questionnaire, the degree of knowledge on antibiotic resistance among 373 cat owners was assessed. Respondent variables include identification, knowledge, demeanor, attitude, and cat care. After that, data were descriptively examined. E. coli was detected in 87.82% (310/353) of the cat anal swab samples (n = 353) in this investigation. Additionally, multidrug resistance was shown in 7.4% (23/310) of the isolates; this frequency was higher in stray cats (8.75%) than in domestic cats (6%). For ampicillin, tetracycline, and streptomycin, the rates of antimicrobial resistance were 28.39% (88/310), 15.81% (49/310), and 14.84% (46/310), in that order. According to an analysis of the questionnaires used to gauge cat owners' comprehension of antimicrobial-resistant events, 64.3% (240/373) of the owners did not know what antimicrobial resistance was. In addition, 72.7% (271/373) of the cat owners were aware of the medications their cats were given, and 66% (246/373) of them knew how to give antibiotics to their pets. These findings are consistent with the findings of another survey that showed 70% (261/373) of cat owners took their sick cats to the veterinarian. Compared to domestic cats, stray cats in this study had a higher rate of multidrug resistance.This is consistent with the relatively positive findings of a survey on cat owners' comprehension of cat maintenance and care; yet, the poor awareness of antimicrobial resistance among cat owners may contribute to its emergence. To raise awareness regarding antimicrobial resistance in cats, cat owners need to get education.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices toward Antimicrobial Resistance among Young Italian Nurses and Students: A Multicenter, Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Nurses play a pivotal role in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, the success of local and national AMR containment efforts hinges on the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of nursing staff and undergraduate students. Objectives: This study aims to explore the determinants of nurses' KAP regarding AMR, offering insights to control the emergence and spread of drug-resistant pathogens. Methods: This cross-sectional, multicenter survey involving Italian nurses, nursing students, and healthcare professionals was conducted administering an anonymous online questionnaire focusing on AMR. The median score of 12 was taken as the cutoff for "good KAP." The association between study variables and good KAP was assessed using chi-square or t-tests, followed by multivariable logistic regression analysis for statistically significant (p < 0.05) variables. Findings: Among 848 participants, 61.9% (n = 525) were students, and 39.6% (n = 336) scored as having "low KAP." High KAP was associated with being female and studying AMR independently. Conversely, living in southern Italy and receiving AMR training from pharmaceutical companies were associated with low KAP. Conclusions: Among Italian nurses, AMR awareness relies on those who have studied AMR as self-taught and is affected by gender and region. Italian universities lack in lectures on AMR management, and much needs to be done to improve awareness of antimicrobial stewardship among nonmedical health workers.

Antimicrobial use on pig farms in Thailand: Farmer perceptions of use and resistance

Limiting the use of antimicrobial agents in intensive livestock production is a challenge due to different perceptions between the short-term benefits of antimicrobial use (AMU) by livestock producers and the long-term social costs of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and its impact on human, animal, and environmental health. Pig farmers are key stakeholders supporting Thailand’s national strategic plan on AMR which aims to reduce antimicrobial consumption in the livestock sector. Consequently, this study explored the knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and practices of pig farmers towards AMU and AMR, expecting to provide information that would help guide policymakers in the development of a proper interventional program for antimicrobial stewardship. The qualitative approach utilized individual, face-to-face, in-depth, semi-structured interviews with the 20 owners of middle- and large-scale pig farms in eastern Thailand. The major themes identified in this finding were: (1) the use of antimicrobials on farms and the knowledge of antimicrobials; (2) AMU on pig farms (the purpose of AMU, antimicrobial prescription practices, and performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing); (3) attitudes towards prescribing practices and record keeping; (4) farm animal husbandry practices and AMU; (5) factors influencing AMU; and (6) awareness regarding AMR. Most of the pig farm owners recognized that achieving Good Agricultural Practices certification required following the legislation and regulations for AMU. Other observations were that the respondents had positive attitudes towards prescribing practices, performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing before antimicrobial therapy, and recording drug use on farms; however, there was low awareness of AMR. In addition, alternative substances, such as medicinal plants, and proper biosecurity practices were mentioned. Factors influencing AMU on pig farms were intensive enforcement of legislation and regulations, the implementation of farm management practices, the provision of information and consultancy services by veterinary professionals, farmer experience, and consumer trends.

National action on antimicrobial resistance and the political economy of health care

ABSTRACT Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest threats to human health in the twenty-first century. A key dimension of global governance in this domain consists of encouraging governments to create national action plans (NAPs) aimed at improving awareness of AMR, improving knowledge through surveillance and research, reducing infection, optimising the use of antimicrobial medicines, and investing in new drugs, vaccines and other interventions. The adoption and implementation of NAPs occur in the context of great political and institutional diversity across countries, and this article examines the consequences of different ways of financing health care. We expect the implementation of NAPs to be more successful in optimising antibiotics use when governments play a larger role in financing health care compared to private expenditure. An analysis of patterns of antibiotic consumption in 191 countries between 2000 and 2018 supports the hypothesis.

Awareness of antimicrobial resistance and appropriate handling of antibiotics by the public in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study using a quiz game

ObjectivePublic awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is essential to tackling this issue. Studies in Saudi Arabia have demonstrated insufficient AMR knowledge among the public. We aimed to indirectly raise awareness while simultaneously assessing the public's knowledge. We also assessed the factors associated with optimal knowledge and antibiotic handling. MethodsWe developed an online quiz game comprising 10 questions on AMR knowledge and antibiotic handling, recording each participant's score. We collected the responses from the Saudi public using a cross-sectional study design. ResultsOf the 428 participants, 68.7% were females and 42.5% were aged between 41 and 65 years; 70.1% held undergraduate degrees. Only 17.8% had a health-related major. While 83.2% had heard of AMR, the median [interquartile range] AMR knowledge score was 6 [5–7] out of 10 points. Holding a health-related major and having prior knowledge of AMR were associated with higher scores (RR, 1.28 and 1.18; 95%CI, 1.13–1.44 and 1.03–1.35; P < 0.001 and P = 0.020, respectively). ConclusionThe Saudi public demonstrated average knowledge of AMR. We recommend awareness-raising campaigns about AMR targeting the public. InnovationWe utilized an innovative approach by distributing an online questionnaire as a quiz game to fulfill two purposes: the assessment of knowledge and awareness-raising about AMR.

Patient and public understanding of antimicrobial resistance: a systematic review and meta-ethnography.

To further develop an understanding of laypeople's (adult patients and public) beliefs and attitudes toward antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by developing a conceptual model derived from identifying and synthesizing primary qualitative research. A systematic search of 12 electronic databases, including CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed and Web of Science to identify qualitative primary studies exploring patient and public understanding of AMR published between 2012 and 2022. Included studies were quality appraised and synthesized using Noblit and Hare's meta-ethnographic approach and reported using eMERGe guidance. Thirteen papers reporting 12 qualitative studies were synthesized. Studies reported data from 466 participants aged 18-90 years. Five themes were identified from these original studies: the responsible patient; when words become meaningless; patient-prescriber relationship; past experience drives antibiotic use; and reframing public perception. These themes supported the development of a conceptual model that illustrates the tension between two different assumptions, that is, how can antibiotics be used for the collective good whilst balancing the immediate needs of individual patients. Findings suggest that AMR is a distinct ethical issue and should not be viewed purely as a prescribing problem. The meta-ethnography-generated conceptual model illustrates many factors affecting the public's perception of AMR. These include laypeople's own knowledge, beliefs and attitudes around antibiotic use, the relationship with the healthcare provider and the wider context, including the overwhelming influence of the media and public health campaigns. Future research is needed to explore effective health messaging strategies to increase laypeople's baseline awareness of AMR as a public threat.

Effectiveness of an Information Booklet on the Awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) among Health Care Professionals in a Selected Primary Care Hospital

The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge on Antibiotics and its resistance among healthcare professionals and the effectiveness of an information booklet, which includes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for to use of Antibiotics to prevent Antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR occurs when bacteria change over time and no longer respond to medicines. Antimicrobial resistance leads to higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays and increased mortality. Knowledge of Antibiotics is essential in preventing from ill effects of AMR. According to the CDC, in 2018, inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics contributed to antibiotics-resistant conditions, which led to 2 million infections and killed about 23,000 Americans annually. In India, 4.95 million people died in 2019 suffered from drug-resistant infections and antibiotic resistance was the direct cause for 1.27 million of those deaths. An experimental research design employed non probability convenient sampling technique to select the 60 samples in a selected primary care hospital. The majority, 44 (73%), of health professionals were between the ages of 21 and 30 years, 40(67%) were nurses, 13(22%) were medical practitioners and 7(11%) were pharmacists. While considering their area of work majority 20(33%) of them, were from the ward and 14(23%) from the ICU setting. Level of knowledge gain score measured using Extended McNemar`s chi-square test revealed health professionals gained 20.27% with 95% CI and it was found statically significant (c2=43.81 P=0.001***). The study results recommend such an interdisciplinary approach of training doctors, nurses and pharmacists to become sensitive and update themselves to reduce the incidence of Antimicrobial resistance among the common public.

Effectiveness of a training program on the knowledge and awareness of antimicrobial resistance and stewardship among dental house-surgeons

Effectiveness of a training program on the knowledge and awareness of antimicrobial resistance and stewardship among dental house-surgeons

Understanding patient demand for and use of antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infection: A qualitative application of the Necessity-Concerns Framework in Saudi Arabia.

Reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a priority for public health. Inappropriate patient demand is an important driver of unnecessary antibiotic use. To develop an effective intervention to reduce inappropriate demand for antibiotics in upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), it is important to identify patient perceptions that influence demand for, and appropriate use of antibiotics. To identify and describe the beliefs about antibiotics necessity and concerns that patients with URTIs have, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. An exploratory qualitative approach was used. One-to-one, face-to-face or telephone semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants recruited using purposive sampling (based on age and gender) from primary healthcare centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia were conducted. Only adult patients who currently experience URTIs symptoms and agreed to participate were recruited. Recruitment for interviews continued until data saturation point was reached. The interview guide explored patients' necessity beliefs and concerns about antibiotics, AMR perceptions, and expectations from URTIs consultation. Interview transcripts were coded using QSR NVivo 12 using framework analysis informed by the Necessity-Concerns Framework to identify key motivations driving antibiotic requests and consultations. the study interviewed 32 participants (44% were male, average age was 36.84). Results identified that the patients often relate their personal need for antibiotics when encountering an URTIs symptoms to the type, severity and duration of symptoms. Patients also linked antibiotics with quicker recovery, generally expressing few concerns about antibiotics mainly because of its short duration of use. However, some conveyed their concern about frequent administration of antibiotics and effect on the body's immune system function, which may make them more prone to infections in the future. Participants varied widely in their awareness of AMR; this was associated with many misconceptions, such as confusing AMR with antibiotics efficacy and tolerance. Interestingly, the interplay between necessity beliefs and concerns was observed to influence the decision to start and stop antibiotic, potentially impacting inappropriate antibiotic demand and unnecessary use. This study highlighted important beliefs and misconceptions about antibiotics and AMR in Saudi population which can be targeted in future interventions to reduce inappropriate demand for antibiotics and optimise appropriate usage.

Opportunities and challenges in antimicrobial resistance policy including animal production systems and humans across stakeholders in Argentina: a context and qualitative analysis

IntroductionGaps in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance and control, including implementation of national action plans (NAPs), are evident internationally. Countries’ capacity to translate political commitment into action is crucial to cope...

Understanding the awareness of antimicrobial resistance amongst commercial poultry farmers in northwestern Nigeria

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in both humans and animals is a growing health threat worldwide. Significant quantities of antibiotics are used in the livestock production sector, particularly in poultry farming to enhance growth and productivity. A cross-sectional study was conducted in three states of northwestern Nigeria to understand the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of commercial poultry farmers on antimicrobial resistance. A total of 247 poultry farmers enrolled in the study comprising 100 (40.5 %) from Sokoto, 68 from Kebbi (27.5 %) and 79 (32.0 %) from Zamfara States. A significant number of the farmers have good knowledge of antimicrobial use (94.74 %), and the potential emergence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria due to irrational administration of antibiotics (83.0 %). Kruskal-Wallis test showed a significant difference in farmers’ knowledge of AMR based on their educational qualification (p < 0.001) as farmers with bachelor’s degree (BSc) being more knowledgeable than those with Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and those who only completed primary or secondary education. A statistically significant difference was also observed in the attitude of the participants based on State (p < 0.001) and educational qualification (p = 0.013). The study provided valuable insight into the understanding of antimicrobial resistance amongst commercial poultry farmers in the region. The findings necessitate the need for educational interventions and initiatives through enlightenment campaigns and deployment of extension workers to reach farmers with low level of education to further improve their attitudes and practice towards responsible use of antibiotics.

The role of gaming for information, education and communication of AMR: full review of online education resources.

The first objective of the Global Action Plan on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is to improve awareness and understanding of AMR through effective communication, education and training. Towards this several efforts have been made to create AMR awareness resources. The aim of these resources is to inform the public about responsible antibiotic use and drive positive behavioural change. Digital media and specifically games can serve as unique innovative platforms in public communication programmes. This study focuses on compiling and evaluating game-based AMR resources. Recognizing the engaging and creative potential of games as learning tools, the primary objective of this study was to identify games that can be used, individually or in combination depending on their unique focus and gameplay experience, for AMR awareness. Furthermore, games are evaluated on five objective criteria and recommendations are made towards further development of gaming resources towards AMR awareness. Meticulous curation was performed to mine information, education and communication resources, with a primary focus on games for AMR awareness and evaluating them based on game design and gameplay, AMR content and learning, engagement and replay appeal, learning outcomes, and level of difficulty and challenges. In this study, we selected 12 AMR games. Our evaluations, spanning various gamification elements and interactive parameters, informed recommendations for future AMR resource development, including multilevel game design, varied graphics, simple-to-understand rules, sustained challenge and a sense of reward, among others. This study generated the first-ever comprehensive catalogue of AMR games that may assist public communication programmes for AMR awareness. Evaluation of these games led to actionable design recommendations for future resources towards effective communication of AMR complexity, enhanced learning and awareness.

Creative usage of Vivli’s Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Open Data through the Re-Use Data Challenge

The escalation of infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria worldwide poses a formidable challenge to global health, necessitating innovative approaches to combat this issue. In 2022, Vivli launched the Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Register, a platform that consolidates antimicrobial susceptibility data from pharmaceutical industry surveillance programs. This register provides a freely available and fully searchable user-friendly repository to facilitate scientific understanding of resistance patterns and support development of innovative strategies to address AMR globally. To promote the register’s utility, raise AMR awareness and encourage further re-use of the available data, Wellcome funded the Vivli AMR Surveillance Open Data Re-Use Data Challenge in 2023. This data challenge successfully fostered diverse, impactful, and innovative solutions that leveraged the AMR Register data to contribute to resolving the AMR crisis. The outcomes of the initiative underscore the importance of access to open data in stimulating collaboration and innovation in the public health domain, particularly in combatting the growing threat of drug-resistant infections.