Surveying antibiotic resistance in children
Antibiotic resistance or the ability of a microorganism to withstand the effects of antibiotics is a growing health concern which is especially prevalent in low-income countries. Irrational use of antimicrobials is linked to this public health problem. In light of this, the ANTRES project has examined antimicrobial use and resistance in healthy children ages 6-72 months in both urban and remote areas of Bolivia and Peru. The analysis took place via 3174 household surveys. Data regarding antimicrobial use was gathered at child, family and community levels in questionnaire forms. Furthermore the notion of antimicrobial treatment on children was the topic of focus group discussions for cares and providers. Findings showed that first choice of treatment was traditional medicine and that antimicrobials were primarily obtained from the healthcare system and not as self-medication. Pharmaceuticals were used primarily for pneumonia-like symptoms rather than for colds. Antimicrobial prescription for illnesses by doctors displayed little discrimination as to choice of antibiotic out of line with the principles of the integrated management of childhood illnesses. This should be useful for further evaluation of antibiotic resistance and its impacts.
