Infectious Disease Symposium: Antimicrobial use and resistance in Eastern Africa

Abstract

The University of Nairobi in collaboration with the Infectious Diseases Society of Kenya, University of Maryland, Baltimore and the Partnership for Advanced Clinical Education Project will host a regional infectious disease symposium on ‘antimicrobial use and resistance in Eastern Africa’ from 18 to 19 June 2015 at Laico Regency Hotel, Nairobi. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health security threat. AMR threatens the effective prevention and treatment of an ever-increasing range of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi. Resistance has been observed in organisms causing prevalent infections (e.g. multi drug resistant TB, extremely drug resistant TB, multi-drug resistant Neisseria gonorrhoea, HIV drug resistance, and artemisinin resistance among others). Microorganisms resistant to antibiotics in animals have also been shown to spread to human populations. Poor surveillance in health and animal sectors, weak laboratory support and low regulatory capacity in many countries has led to this dire situation. The upcoming symposium responds to the declarations of the 68th World Health Assembly held in May 2015 where a global action plan to tackle antimicrobial resistance was endorsed. Key among the WHA declaration objectives are the generation of awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance. The symposium will address the sources and significance of antimicrobial resistance and present possible solutions to address this global challenge. This symposium brings together the largest gathering of infectious diseases practitioners in the medical and veterinary fields in Eastern Africa. The symposium will offer participants an opportunity to network with African and international professionals, enhance cooperation with related stake-holders and gain scientific information from within Kenya and internationally.