The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has urged Filipinos to practice responsible use of antibiotics. The call coincided with the country’s participation in the recently concluded World Anti-microbial Awareness Week (WAAW).
The annual global WAAW observance aims to raise awareness on anti-microbial resistance (AMR) — a growing health threat that occurs when antibiotics and similar medicines become ineffective due to misuse or overuse.
Health experts warn that when AMR develops, common infections become more difficult to treat and may lead to severe complications, longer hospital stays, and increased health costs.
In its information campaign, PhilHealth reminded Filipinos of the “3 Ms” (in Filipino) for proper antibiotic use, as follows:
• May reseta ng doktor – Take antibiotics only when prescribed by a licensed physician.
• Masusing sundin ang dosage at tagal ng pag-inom – Follow the correct dose and complete the full course of treatment.
• Maiwasan ang pag-inom ng tira-tirang gamot – Never self-medicate with leftover antibiotics.
PhilHealth said responsible antibiotic use is crucial in protecting the effectiveness of medicines and preventing the spread of drug-resistant infections. (With PNA)