27/05/2025
Papua New Guinea is on the brink of a serious health crisis due to the misuse of antibiotics.
One of many such recent encounters, this case underscores the growing threat: a patient treated outside Port Moresby (POM) before being referred to PIH. Culture samples drawn on arrival reveal multi-drug resistance (MDR), including resistance to antibiotics typically reserved for MDR cases.
Reflecting on my arrival in PNG six years ago, antibiotics like ceftriaxone were still effective. Today, we are witnessing a rapid increase in AMR, putting PNG on a similar path as other countries struggling with this issue. This is a call to action for healthcare professionals and the community to use antibiotics responsibly and prevent further escalation of AMR.
Aamir Siddiqui
