Antimicrobial Research and One Health in Africa

Antimicrobial resistance is a significant problem in Africa, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, due to poor living conditions, inadequate access to sanitation and potable water, weak health systems, and the use of antimicrobials for food animal production. This 14-chapter book addresses the One Health approach to combating AMR, including behavioral and social drivers, antibiotic-resistant neonates and nontyphoidal Salmonella infections, mastitis, biosecurity in animal farming, disinfectants and AMR, and the environmental dimension. It also highlights the use of nanomaterials to treat polluted waters from such environments and the rich floral diversity of Africa as an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to combat AMR.

Format: Hardback
Length: 349 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is widely acknowledged as one of the most formidable challenges facing the world today. While its prevalence spans across continents, Sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden of this malaise. Factors such as poor living conditions, limited access to sanitation and clean water, and inadequate healthcare systems contribute to the high disease burden experienced on the continent. As a result, extensive use of antimicrobials is necessary to combat infections. However, the problem is further exacerbated by weak health systems and the absence of robust policies regulating antimicrobial use. Additionally, the growing demand for animal protein to meet the nutritional needs of rapidly expanding populations has led to the misuse of antimicrobials, including those banned in other regions, for food animal production. The unintended consequences of this indiscriminate use include the massive discharge of antimicrobials, their residues, antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms, and their associated genes into the environment.

This comprehensive 14-chapter book delves into the AMR problem in Africa, highlighting the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment in combating AMR. Authored by experts from across the continent, the book explores diverse aspects of AMR in Africa, including behavioral and social drivers, antimicrobial stewardship, human infections, mastitis, biosecurity in animal farming, and the environmental dimension.

The first chapter provides an overview of AMR in Africa, emphasizing its scope and impact. It highlights the continent's vulnerability due to factors such as limited healthcare infrastructure, poor sanitation, and the overuse of antimicrobials in both human and animal healthcare. The chapter also discusses the role of social and cultural factors in AMR, such as traditional medicine practices, poor hygiene, and the lack of awareness and education about AMR.

The subsequent chapters delve into specific aspects of AMR in Africa. Chapter 2 explores the behavioral and social drivers of AMR, including factors such as the lack of access to healthcare, poverty, misinformation, and the influence of the pharmaceutical industry. It also examines the role of food production, animal husbandry, and the environment in AMR transmission. Chapter 3 focuses on antimicrobial stewardship in an African context, discussing the challenges faced by healthcare providers in implementing effective antimicrobial stewardship programs. It highlights the importance of education, training, and surveillance to prevent and control AMR.

Chapter 4 explores the clinical relevance of the genetics of viral resistance, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS and other viral infections in Africa. It discusses the genetic diversity of viruses and the mechanisms of viral resistance, as well as the implications of viral resistance for treatment and prevention strategies. Chapter 5 examines AMR in mastitis, a significant livestock disease in Africa. It discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment of mastitis, as well as the role of antimicrobial use in its prevention and control. The chapter also explores the potential impact of AMR on milk quality and food safety.

Chapter 6 explores biosecurity in animal farming, a critical aspect of preventing the spread of AMR. It discusses the importance of good animal husbandry practices, vaccination programs, and the use of biocontrol agents to control infectious diseases. The chapter also highlights the role of animal genetics in AMR, particularly in the context of livestock breeding and selection. Chapter 7 examines the linkage between disinfectants and AMR, discussing the potential risks and benefits of disinfectant use in healthcare settings. It also explores the role of antimicrobial resistance in the development of disinfectant resistance.

Chapter 8 explores the environmental dimension of AMR, particularly in the context of aquatic environments. It discusses the impact of antimicrobial use on water quality, the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in aquatic ecosystems, and the potential risks to human health and the environment. Chapter 9 examines the impact of AMR on human health, discussing the risks of antimicrobial-resistant infections, the challenges of treating infections, and the need for innovative approaches to antimicrobial stewardship. Chapter 10 explores the role of international cooperation and collaboration in combating AMR. It discusses the need for global initiatives, research funding, and policy development to address AMR at a global level. Chapter 11 examines the policy and regulatory frameworks in Africa, discussing the challenges and opportunities for developing and implementing effective AMR policies. Chapter 12 explores the role of the private sector in combating AMR, discussing the potential for private-public partnerships and the development of innovative solutions to AMR.

In conclusion, Antimicrobial Resistance in Africa: A One Health Approach is a comprehensive and timely book that provides a comprehensive understanding of the AMR problem in Africa. By addressing the various compartments of the One Health concept, the book illustrates the need for concerted health efforts in the fight against AMR, especially in Africa. The book offers valuable insights into the behavioral and social drivers of AMR, antimicrobial stewardship, human infections, mastitis, biosecurity in animal farming, and the environmental dimension. It highlights the challenges and opportunities for developing and implementing effective AMR policies and strategies. The book is a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, healthcare providers, and anyone interested in understanding and addressing the AMR problem in Africa.

Weight: 717g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031237959
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023