11 Sep 2024
Doherty Institute leads AMR training to support capacity building in Kiribati
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant public health challenge globally, and Kiribati, like many Pacific Island countries, is taking proactive steps to address this issue. In July 2024, the Kiribati Ministry of Health invited the WHO Collaborating Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) at the Doherty Institute to deliver a comprehensive training workshop in partnership with The Pacific Community (SPC) to help strengthen the country’s capacity to combat AMR.
Held over a week at Tungaru Central Hospital in the capital city of Tarawa, the workshop brought together healthcare professionals, laboratory technicians and representatives from various government departments to enhance their knowledge and practical skills in infection prevention and control (IPC), antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and microbiology. Participants gained hands-on experience in preparing microbiological media, cultivating and isolating pathogens, and conducting antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
A key component of the workshop was the introduction of the One Health approach, which emphasises the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. This perspective sheds light on the broader impacts of AMR and underscores the importance of integrated strategies to effectively control and mitigate its spread.
The week culminated in participants developing an action plan to implement an antimicrobial stewardship program in Kiribati. This collaborative effort is expected to be instrumental in guiding the country’s response to AMR.
The training was led by the Doherty Institute’s Dr Rod James, Medical Microbiologist at the Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory at the University of Melbourne and Director of Clinical Services for the Guidance Group and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship (NCAS) at The Royal Melboue Hospital, and NCAS and the Royal Melbourne Hospital’s Ngan-Ha Truong, AMS Implementation Manager for the Guidance Group at the Doherty Institute.
“The engagement of the participants was extremely encouraging, with a demonstrable large knowledge gain over the week,” said Dr Rod James.
“We hope that by fostering collaboration between different sectors, this workshop encourages a more holistic approach to combatting this global challenge.”
Capacity-building programs like this one are essential for developing local expertise to effectively monitor and respond to AMR challenges and establish an effective AMS program. By advancing its laboratory and diagnostic capabilities, Kiribati is making a significant contribution to health security in the Western Pacific Region, demonstrating its commitment and responsibility in addressing AMR challenges.
Participants during the workshop which will help to inform an action plan for the implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship program