Combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
I have successfully fought MDR TB (Multi-drug resistant Tuberculosis). I am 24 years old and have gone through the challenge of having a drug resistant infection. It started with chest pain and fibrous blood in my cough. I also began to lose body weight and had lethargy, night sweats, and chill fevers. After completing blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, and finally molecular testing on my sputum, I was told I had MDR TB. Immediately, I began DOTS Treatment Second line drugs which included Kanamycin injections. The first four months of therapy was very difficult; this is when I felt the worse due to nausea and lack of appetite. I had to modify my diet to high protein to slow my weight loss. The duration of my treatment course was nine months which is now successfully completed. I have gained back my weight and feel healthy. My message to everyone – Don’t lose hope, have strong will power. Because all of us need to be resistance fighters.