malvernmugadzikwa
Your Money, Your Call
Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba
THE country is currently in the throes of a significant spike in flu cases.
This alarming situation is being exacerbated by several practices within the healthcare system.
While over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be helpful for common colds, misuse due to self-diagnosis can lead to incorrect treatment of the flu, delaying proper recovery.
Fake or expired medications sold by unlicensed vendors pose a serious health risk to patients. Additionally, unregulated herbal remedies may have unknown side effects or be completely ineffective.
Likewise, over-prescribing antibiotics contributes to antibiotic resistance, making future bacterial infections harder to treat. They may lead to prolonged illness and potential complications.
Many locals, in an attempt to self-medicate for the flu, often misuse OTC medications. This practice could be contributing to the current flu surge and recurring infections.
While accessible and seemingly convenient, OTC medications are not always the best solution. Also, ineffective self-treatment with OTC medication can lead to additional doctor visits and potentially more expensive drugs down the line.
Feeling slightly better after taking OTC medication can create a false sense of security, delaying a proper diagnosis and treatment, which often worsens the illness.
The sale of medications by unlicensed vendors is an area of concern. The proliferation of such vendors is a direct result of the high demand for affordable medication, but short-cuts often prove costly in the end.
Patients should always make it a policy to buy medications from registered and licensed pharmacies.
Herbal remedies have long been a part of our culture, but their unregulated use is also a threat to the health system.
While some herbs can offer relief, others may interact negatively with conventional medications or fail to address the underlying cause of viruses like flu.
The lack of scientific validation, in some instances, means the efficacy and safety of these herbal treatments are often questionable. The drawback is patients may rely on ineffective treatments, leading to prolonged illness and potential interactions with other medications.
Antibiotic misuse is becoming a dangerous trend.
Perhaps the most concerning practice is the use of antibiotics as a treatment for viral infections. Antibiotics are generally designed to combat bacterial infections, not viruses. Their inappropriate use can lead to antibiotic resistance.
To tackle this multifaceted issue, there should be public awareness campaigns — educating the public about the dangers of self-medication and the importance of consulting healthcare professionals.
Awareness campaigns can help dispel myths and encourage responsible use of medications. Regulation and enforcement can also be used. This involves strengthening the guideline for medication sales and cracking down on unlicensed vendors.
The authorities need to ensure that only licensed pharmacies are allowed to operate.
While herbal remedies are part of the cultural fabric, promoting safe and scientifically validated herbal practices can help mitigate risks.
Collaboration with traditional healers and integrating them into the formal healthcare system can be beneficial.
The flu surge in the country is a complex issue, with multiple contributory factors. Addressing it requires collective effort by the Government, healthcare providers and the public.
By promoting responsible medication use, regulating the sales of drugs and enhancing public awareness, the country can mitigate the impact of this health crisis and safeguard the well-being of its citizens.
Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba is a marketing consultant with a strong passion for customer service/experience. For comments, suggestions and training, she can be reached at: [email protected] or +263712979461, 0719978335, 0772978335.
Online Reporter