Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has issued a stern warning to Kenyans over the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, particularly during the festive season when cases of stomach-related illnesses tend to rise.
Speaking to the press, Muthoni cautioned members of the public against the growing habit of self-medication, noting that many people rush to purchase drugs from chemists without consulting a qualified medical professional. She explained that common symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, which are frequently reported during the holiday period due to changes in diet, travel and hygiene practices, do not automatically require antibiotic treatment.
The Principal Secretary stressed that self-prescription not only puts individual health at risk but also contributes to the broader public health threat of antimicrobial resistance. She warned that the misuse and overuse of antibiotics reduce their effectiveness over time, making it harder to treat infections when they genuinely occur.
Muthoni urged anyone experiencing illness during the festive season to seek proper medical advice and obtain prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers before taking any medication. She added that early consultation with a doctor ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, reducing the risk of complications.
The PS further called on pharmacists and chemists to uphold professional standards by avoiding the sale of prescription-only medicines without valid prescriptions. According to Muthoni, collective responsibility from the public, healthcare workers and drug outlets is key to safeguarding the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Her remarks come amid heightened concerns by health authorities over rising cases of antimicrobial resistance in the country, a challenge that experts say could undermine the treatment of common infections if not urgently addressed.