Antibiotic Resistance Threatening Public Health in Pakistan

A growing crisis of antibiotic resistance is unfolding in Pakistan, driven by the irrational use of antibiotics. This issue has severe consequences, including thousands of lives lost annually due to drug-resistant pathogens. The consequences of antibiotic resistance are far-reaching, resulting in untreatable infections, prolonged hospitalizations, rising treatment costs, and increased mortality rates. To combat this issue, a national initiative called National Action Plan 2.0 has been launched to rationalize antibiotic use and promote public awareness. Furthermore, over 15,000 healthcare providers are being trained to discourage self-medication and the misuse of antibiotics. This initiative aims to address the pressing need for responsible antibiotic use and mitigate the risks associated with antibiotic resistance in Pakistan.