Superbugs

These are microorganisms that develop antibiotics resistance and it is harder to treat
(WHO). According to WHO antimicrobial resistance is spreading in a very alarming way and
putting at risk the achievement of millennium development goals. Superbugs are not only
difficult to treat but also better fit and survive in the human body and cause deadly diseases ( SA,
July 23, 2015). According to the same report of the Scientific America (2015) these antimicrobial
strains kill human immune cells and it become difficult to treat the infectious diseases. Many
microorganisms have adapted themselves to antibiotics and they have make these drugs less
effective (NIH). According to National Institute of Health bacteria multiply rapidly and evolve
quickly to develop resistance against antibiotics. The institute also reports that misuse, overuse
and not taking proper dosage are the leading causes of resistance (NIH).
A recent documentary of Al-Jazeera Television on superbugs and its arise in India has
surprise the viewers. There is ruthless use of antibiotics in India and result is the arise of
superbugs that has endangered her future generations. Millions of newborn are among the most
affected because no longer such a wonderful drug is effective against them. Antibiotics of lost
resort are ineffective against them. But in a remote village from Dehli a ray of hope is there in
the form of Dr. Bang who trained health workers to educate and help poor people. The workers
administer with care two antibiotics to new born without cost. There is absolutely no incentive
on antibiotics provided to babies so a highly controlled usage. According to the report within a
period of 20 years the rate of mortality dropped dramatically as the AMR reduced among the
community.
Designing and implementing strategies that prevent any incentives for the doctors and
sales people and minimizing pharmaceutical companies profits will help reducing AMR and will
ensure sustainable business.
Global sales of antibiotics grew with 36% from 2000 to 2010 of which India, Russia,
China, Brazil and South Africa accounting for 76% of that increase. In India much of this growth
is coming from private doctors who are responsible for delivering 90% care and at the same time
they are poorly trained. It is also reported that much of their income is coming from the sales of
these antibiotics ( New York Times, Dec. 2014).