Projects launched to combat ‘silent pandemic’ of drug resistant germs

Barbados is strengthening its arsenal in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) with the launch of two major UK-funded health initiatives to bolster the Caribbean’s response to the growing public health threat.

The projects—funded through the UK Government’s Fleming Fund—include the Caribbean Antimicrobial Resistance Alliance (CARA), to be implemented by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), and Strengthening Antimicrobial Resistance Response in the Caribbean, led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

Together, they aim to bolster AMR surveillance, laboratory systems, policy coordination, and multisectoral action across the region.

Delivering the key address during the launch event on Monday, Chief Medical Officer Dr Kenneth George described AMR as a “silent pandemic” already deadlier than HIV and malaria, calling it a major threat to public health and development in small island states like Barbados.

“Antimicrobial resistance is a major public health and economic issue that requires a coordinated multisectoral response,” he said.

“It threatens the effective treatment of an ever-increasing range of infections… resulting in prolonged illness, hospitalisations, and increased mortality, often disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable.”

Dr George revealed that Barbados has already spent over $3 million to date on equipment and supplies for the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory, the Veterinary Services Laboratory, and the Government Analytical Services Laboratory as part of its national response.

He also announced plans to pursue regional designation for the Best-dos Santos lab as an AMR reference centre, building on its recent recognition by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and PAHO as a Regional Influenza Centre.

“In the next few months, we will be working with our hosts to have a similar-type designation on AMR. We believe the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory can indeed be an AMR leader in the region,” he said.

The CMO also noted that other key actions taken locally include the formation of a national multisectoral AMR committee, development of a strategic coordination plan, and funding secured for public education campaigns.

The country is also actively reporting to multiple global AMR surveillance platforms.

Speaking on behalf of CARICOM, Director of Human and Social Development Helen Royer said AMR is among the top ten global health threats identified by the WHO and poses serious consequences for productivity, public finances, and access to life-saving treatment.

“Globally, drug-resistant bacteria pose a significant threat to public health, leading to increased mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs,” Royer said.

“This proposed coordinated and multisectoral approach can assist in ensuring a sustainable response to address antimicrobial resistance and its negative impacts on our member states.”

She noted that the new projects directly support CARICOM’s commitment to strengthening and implementing national AMR action plans and commended the UK and regional implementing partners for their collaboration.

“Let us commit to act beyond this project and improve the health, well-being, and quality of life for all our communities,” Royer said.

The launch brought together representatives from CARPHA, PAHO/WHO, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), and senior officials from several Caribbean health ministries and agencies working across human, animal, and environmental health sectors under the One Health framework.

(SM)