Skip to main content
. 2024 Sep 5;75:102801. doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102801

Table 3.

Actionable strategies to tackle AMR among migrants.

Item Description
Improved Surveillance/Research Having reliable and efficient surveillance systems in place is crucial for monitoring the spread and patterns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) within migrant communities. To achieve this, a unified system must be established to gather data on antimicrobial usage, resistance trends, and healthcare-associated infections. Additionally, it is critical to support research initiatives aimed at uncovering the underlying factors driving AMR among migrant populations, as well as developing innovative methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This can be achieved through conducting epidemiological studies, genomic surveillance, and clinical trials to inform evidence-based interventions.
Health Education/Stewadrship Tailored health education campaigns that meet the cultural and linguistic needs of migrant communities are vital for improving their overall health. These campaigns can increase awareness of the appropriate use of antibiotics, the risks of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and the importance of completing antibiotic courses as prescribed. Additionally, it's crucial to implement antimicrobial stewardship programs in migrant healthcare facilities and provide healthcare providers with training on appropriate prescribing practices. Encouraging the use of diagnostic testing to guide antibiotic treatment decisions is also important. Providing health education and information about AMR, infectious diseases, and appropriate antibiotic use can empower migrants to take control of their health and make informed decisions. Ultimately, this can lead to improved health-seeking behaviors, better adherence to treatment regimens, and reduced reliance on antibiotics.
Restructuring migrant living conditions Living in overcrowded conditions, such as migrant shelters or poor housing conditions, can cause the rapid spread of infectious diseases, some of which can be resistant to antibiotics. To prevent the transmission of these pathogens, it is crucial to ensure that migrants have access to adequate housing and are not forced to live in overcrowded spaces. Additionally, promoting good hygiene practices, such as hand washing and providing access to clean water and sanitation facilities, can help individuals protect themselves against infections and reduce their dependence on antibiotics. By taking these measures, we can also play a significant role in reducing the selective pressure for antimicrobial resistance.
Access to healthcare Enhancing the availability of healthcare services for migrant communities is of utmost importance. The language barriers, cultural disparities, and legal status are among the hurdles that they encounter which can impact their physical and mental health. Addressing these obstacles requires culturally knowledgeable healthcare providers, as well as promoting awareness about the existing healthcare resources within migrant communities. Prompt access to healthcare services is equally vital as it aids in the early detection and treatment of infections, thus lessening the likelihood of complications and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Community Engagement The involvement of migrant communities is essential to developing and executing effective strategies to prevent antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Accordingly, there is need for robust partnerships with community leaders, advocacy groups, and healthcare providers. In doing so, we can enable these communities to become active participants in their healthcare and efforts to prevent AMR. A supportive environment must be created to facilitate the dissemination of health messages and encourage positive health behaviors, such as the responsible use of antibiotics.