NICD calls for action as SA marks antimicrobial resistance week

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has called for stronger public awareness and coordinated action to curb antimicrobial resistance (AMR), warning that drug-resistant infections pose a growing threat to health systems in South Africa and globally.

As the world observes Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week from 18 to 24 November, the institute said AMR remains one of the World Health Organization’s top public health threats. AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to treatment, making common infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of severe illness or death.

This year’s theme, “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,” highlights the urgency of confronting resistance through surveillance, responsible antibiotic use and strengthened infection-prevention practices.

The NICD said it continues to scale up AMR monitoring across both public and private healthcare facilities. Its online AMR dashboard provides real-time data on bacterial and fungal resistance, broken down by pathogen and age group. The institute is also expanding environmental surveillance by testing wastewater for resistant organisms.

“With the AMR dashboard, we aim to increase data transparency and public reporting,” said Prof Vindana Chibabhai, head of the Centre for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance and Mycoses at the NICD.

Chibabhai said transparency helps hospitals improve patient safety and allows government to direct resources where they are needed most.

“Data transparency also helps government and health leaders direct staff, equipment, and funding to the facilities that need support the most, rather than guessing where the needs are. Transparency builds trust,” Chibabhai said.

The institute warned that limited treatment options have already led to rising complications and deaths from previously manageable infections, including urinary tract infections, pneumonia and bloodstream infections. Newborn babies, older people and patients with conditions such as cancer and HIV are among the most vulnerable.

“To prevent deaths from AMR, there are several important solutions that involve all sectors of society. First, we need to educate the public about AMR and how to use antibiotics wisely. Secondly, we need to strengthen surveillance systems, which are the backbone of the solution, as they allow us to monitor as things evolve.”

Chibabhai said stronger public education on responsible antibiotic use, improved hygiene and sanitation, and robust surveillance systems remain essential to slowing the spread of drug-resistant organisms.

“This AMR Awareness Week, let’s unite in our efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance and safeguard our communities,” Chibabhai said.