BUTUAN CITY (October 17) — The Department of Health – Caraga (DOH-13) has stepped up its campaign against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), warning that improper antibiotic use can make infections harder and more expensive to treat.
DOH-13 Officer-in-Charge Sadaila Raki-in urged media partners to help raise public awareness, especially in remote areas where many rely on radio and social media for health information.
Senior pharmacist Leslie Cortes explained that AMR occurs when microorganisms survive exposure to medicines, often due to incorrect antibiotic use. She stressed the importance of prescription-based use to ensure proper dosage and treatment.
Dr. Amethyst Kathleen Alicante, DOH-13 senior medical officer, said AMR leads to longer hospital stays and higher treatment costs as more expensive antibiotics are required.
The regional office is working with local governments, health facilities and community partners to broaden the reach of its AMR awareness drive.
