Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain has warned that the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant germs in the country is increasing at an alarming rate, posing a significant threat to public health.
Speaking during a question-and-answer session in the National Parliament on Thursday, the minister identified Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) as a growing crisis.
Responding to a query from Joynal Abedin, MP of the Feni-2 constituency, the Minister noted that the problem is worsening daily due to the irrational and excessive use of antibiotics, coupled with limitations in infection prevention and control measures.
He further emphasized that the uncontrolled use of antimicrobials in both the human and animal sectors is creating a high risk of resistant germs spreading into the environment, which significantly complicates medical treatment.
To address these challenges, the government is implementing several initiatives to enhance the country’s capacity for pathogen identification and AMR determination. According to the minister, these measures include the execution of a national action plan and the adoption of integrated activities under the “One Health” approach.
The government is also expanding the national AMR surveillance program and establishing modern microbiology laboratories in government medical college hospitals and specialised institutions. These facilities are being provided with modern equipment and reagents, while laboratory personnel undergo specialized training.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns are being conducted to prevent the further misuse of antibiotics.
In response to another question from MP Md Mostafizur Rahman Babul, the Health Minister touched upon reforms in medical education. He stated that a 5% special quota has been established in private medical and dental colleges for underprivileged and meritorious students pursuing MBBS and BDS courses.
This initiative aims to improve the quality of medical education while ensuring opportunities for students from low-income backgrounds.
The Minister informed the House that a total of 394 students have secured admission to various private medical and dental colleges under this specific quota during the current academic year.
