A cross sectional study of antimicrobial use among self-medicating covid-19 cases in Nyeri County

This study investigated self-medication with antibiotics among confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nyeri County, Kenya, during the pandemic. A phone-based survey of 280 individuals revealed that 23.4% self-medicated with antibiotics, mainly Azithromycin and Amoxycillin, often before testing and sometimes repeatedly. While only half were aware of regulations on antibiotic use, older individuals were less likely to self-medicate. Conversely, those with symptoms and awareness of COVID-19 regulations were more likely to do so. The findings highlight the need for timely public health interventions and stronger antimicrobial resistance (AMR) policies to curb irrational drug use during health emergencies.

Read More >>>