Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has warned Kenyans against over-reliance on over-the-counter medications, especially antibiotics.
Speaking on Sunday, PS Muthoni noted that this misuse of drugs could lead the body to become immune to the antibiotics, which could ultimately defeat their benefits when most needed.
Therefore, she urged Kenyans to visit healthcare facilities when they feel sick and not just prescribe themselves antibiotics.
"We are asking members of the public to avoid over-the-counter medication and prescribing drugs for themselves. It is important to note that antibiotic resistance is a reality now," PS Muthoni stated.
"We request that members of the public, should you get unwell, please visit a health facility where you will find a skilled healthcare workforce to guide you and prescribe to you the kind of drugs that you require for your body and your ailments."
The PS explained that antimicrobial resistance was a growing problem, not just in Kenya, but globally, due to the nature of individuals everywhere resorting to treating themselves over the slightest ailments.
She cited ailments like the common cold and flu as some for which most Kenyans rely on over-the-counter medications to treat, warning that this could be a form of drug abuse.
"Most people are getting minor ailments and rushing to the chemist and prescribing themselves antibiotics, and then when it exists in their bodies for a long time, it does not work anymore. The day you require it, it will not work. Therefore, it is important for people to stop abusing drugs," she stated.
"When you have a common cold or the flu, don't rush to buy antibiotics. Go to the doctor, ask for a proper prescription and get the right drugs that have been prescribed by somebody skilled with the knowledge of what your body requires."
Muthoni was raising an alarm over the rising cases of drug abuse in the country, especially among young people aged between 15 and 35, with an astonishing one in 11 of 15 to 24-year-olds actively using a drug or a substance.
To bolster the fight against this concerning trend, she called on educators, religious leaders, community elders, elected representatives, civil society and community health promoters, among others, to assert their influence and help in the campaign.
"I call upon all stakeholders, public, private, faith-based development partners and citizens to stand united in confronting this national health issue. Let us join hands to create a healthier, safer and drug-free Kenya where all citizens and, most importantly, our youth are equipped with the knowledge and the support to make informed choices," she stated.
