Rwanda Concerned About Drug-Resistant Microorganisms

Elias Hakizimana Nov 23, 2024 0 Comments

By The Inspirer.

The Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) has raised concerns about the rising prevalence of drug-resistant microorganisms, which include bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that are no longer susceptible to medications designed to treat infections. This growing trend poses a serious threat to public health in Rwanda.

The issue was highlighted on Friday, November 22, 2024, during a preparatory meeting for the upcoming World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Week Conference. RBC noted that resistant microorganisms are commonly found in diseases such as malaria, bloodstream infections, tuberculosis, and others.

Dr. Isabelle Mukagatare, head of the Health Services Department at RBC, described antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a silent epidemic claiming lives without attracting much attention.

“This is a real epidemic that kills silently. Unlike other outbreaks that visibly claim lives and spark immediate concern, resistant microorganisms cause numerous infections and gradual fatalities. This is why raising awareness and taking action now, without waiting for tomorrow, is crucial,” Dr. Mukagatare emphasized.

Causes and Public Awareness

One major driver of antimicrobial resistance is the prolonged and improper use of medications, which allows microorganisms to adapt and render treatments ineffective. Dr. Mukagatare explained, “When treatment is administered for an extended period, microorganisms eventually adapt, becoming resistant to the drugs—a phenomenon referred to as antimicrobial resistance.”

RBC also noted that some pathogens in Rwanda have developed resistance to as many as six different types of medications. Dr. Mukagatare warned against the misuse of medications, such as sharing prescriptions, which further exacerbates the spread of resistant pathogens.

Dr. Claude Mambo Muvunyi, Director General of RBC, highlighted specific diseases that are increasingly challenging to treat due to resistance. “Infections like bloodstream infections and malaria have shown growing resistance to treatments, leading to higher mortality risks in hospitals. Tuberculosis and HIV also face similar challenges due to resistant pathogens,” he said.

Impact on Livestock and Agriculture

The issue extends beyond human health to livestock. Dr. Jean Claude Rukundo, a researcher at the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), noted that antimicrobial resistance has been observed in animals as well. “The problem is not limited to humans. In livestock, we use medications similar to those for humans, and resistance has been observed even in this sector,” he explained.

Research conducted by RAB found that 46% of the 200 microorganism samples submitted for international study showed resistance to medications. This resistance threatens livestock health and productivity, potentially reducing the availability of animal-derived food products and exacerbating food insecurity.

Global Perspective and Economic Impact

Globally, research indicates that if no action is taken, antimicrobial-resistant infections could kill over 35 million people by 2050—equivalent to three deaths per minute. The economic impact is also dire, with losses projected to reach $400 billion annually by 2030 and a reduction in global GDP of $1–3 trillion if the issue is not addressed.

RBC emphasized the urgent need for concerted efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance, including proper use of medications, enhanced hygiene practices, and increased public awareness campaigns. Failure to act now could result in catastrophic consequences for both public health and the global economy.