Zarafshan Shiraz, New Delhi
The rise of drug-resistant superbugs poses a major threat to global health that may surpass the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These superbugs – bacteria and other pathogens that have developed resistance to antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs – are multiplying at an alarming rate.
Comparative impact: Superbugs vs. COVID-19
Superbugs vs. COVID-19: Comparing the scale and severity of global health threats and preparing for the next health disaster (Photo Credit: Tech Explorist) {{^userSubscribed}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{/userSubscribed}}
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Shuchin Bajaj, founder and director, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, revealed that the phenomenon is caused by several factors, including overuse and misuse of antibiotics in human medicine, agriculture and animal husbandry. Health experts highlighted all you need to know about the growing danger.
1. Scale and Severity:
COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major global upheaval, with millions of deaths and widespread economic and social disruption. However, the world has witnessed the development of effective vaccines and treatments in a relatively short space of time. Superbugs: In contrast, superbugs threaten to have a much broader and lasting impact. As bacteria develop resistance, previously treatable infections can become deadly. The medical community is struggling to keep up with the rapid evolution of these pathogens, leaving the pipeline of new antibiotics alarmingly short.
2. Impact on Healthcare:
COVID-19: Intensive care units (ICUs) were overwhelmed, but non-COVID-19 related medical care continued with improvements. Superbugs: Drug-resistant infections can complicate routine surgeries, cancer treatments, and chronic disease care, making even mild infections deadly and undermining entire healthcare systems.
3. Financial Burden:
COVID-19: Short-term economic shock is severe, but efforts to recover are underway. Superbugs: Long-term economic impacts are significant due to prolonged illness, increased healthcare costs, and reduced productivity. The World Bank estimates that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could cost the global economy $100 trillion by 2050.
Prevention measures and global response
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On how to prepare for the next health disaster, Dr. Shuchin Bajaj offered the following suggestions:
Surveillance and control: Strengthening global surveillance systems to monitor and respond to AMR patterns is crucial. Implementing strong antibiotic stewardship programs can ensure that antibiotics are used responsibly. Research and development: Investment in research to develop new antibiotics, alternative therapies and rapid diagnostic tools is essential. Encouraging pharmaceutical innovation through public-private partnerships can accelerate progress. Public awareness and education: Educating the public and health professionals about the dangers of antibiotic misuse and promoting best practices can help curb the rise of resistant bacteria. Regulatory measures: Governments should implement stricter regulations on antibiotic use in agriculture and veterinary practice to reduce unnecessary exposure.
“The rise in drug-resistant superbugs is an urgent crisis that demands immediate and sustained global action. The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a stark reminder of the fragility of global healthcare systems, but the threat posed by superbugs has the potential to be much more insidious and persistent. Adopting a multi-pronged approach combining scientific innovation, policy interventions and public engagement is essential to mitigating this threat and protecting future generations,” concluded Dr. Shuchin Bajaj.
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News / Lifestyle / Health / Superbugs vs. COVID-19: Comparing the scale and severity of global health threats and preparing for the next health catastrophe
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