News | Antimicrobials

Africa's Surge in Antibiotic use amid COVID-19 raises concerns over antimicrobial resistance

29 April February 2024, 11:45

Source: WHO Press release, 24 April 2024

Information released by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals a significant surge in unwarranted antibiotic usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, reigniting concerns over the silent proliferation of antimicrobial resistance. 
 

The findings were based on information obtained from the WHO Global Clinical Platform for COVID-19 and include data from 450,000 patients from 65 countries who were hospitalised for COVID-19 over a 3-year period (Jan 2020 – March 2023).

While only 8% of patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had bacterial co-infections, antibiotics were prescribed in almost three out of four (75%) of these cases. 

Antimicrobial usage was highest among patients with severe or critical COVID-19 ( 81% global average) despite the lack of benefits in their use. At the same time, there was considerable variation in prescription rates in mild to moderate cases, with the African region recording the highest use in this category (79%). 

Overall, the African and Middle Mediterranean regions recorded the highest prescription rate - 83%- compared to 33% in the Western Pacific region. Over the three years, prescriptions decreased in Europe and North America but increased in Africa. 

Concerningly, the study found that ‘Watch’ antibiotics, those with higher resistance potential, were most frequently prescribed globally.

The findings underscore the urgent need to improve the rational use of antibiotics. 

The information will be presented at the ESCMID Global Congress, which will be held in Barcelona between 29 and 30 April 2024.

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