Warning Against Antibiotics Issued as Drug Misuse Spirals Out of Control

Antibiotics have long been a trusted solution for many health problems. But now, the Kenyan government is raising a red flag.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni is warning Kenyans against relying too much on over-the-counter drugs, especially antibiotics. She says this habit could turn deadly in the future.

Speaking on Sunday, PS Muthoni emphasized that frequent misuse of antibiotics can make these powerful drugs useless when they are most needed.

She urged Kenyans to visit health facilities for proper diagnosis and treatment instead of self-prescribing.

Her warning comes as Kenya faces rising cases of antibiotic resistance, a growing health threat that is making it harder to treat common infections.

Health PS Mary Muthoni has reminded Kenyans that proper use of antibiotics means finishing the full course of treatment, even if you feel better before the medicine runs out. Stopping early can also lead to resistance. [Photo/Courtesy]

Why the Warning Against Anti-Biotics Matters

The government’s message is simple but serious. Overusing antibiotics can lead to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This means bacteria in the body become so used to the drugs that they stop working. When that happens, infections that were once easy to treat can become life-threatening.

PS Muthoni explained that the problem is not just in Kenya. Around the world, many people buy antibiotics without a prescription, thinking they can handle minor illnesses like colds or the flu on their own. But antibiotics do not work on viruses like the common cold. Using them in these cases is both useless and dangerous.

“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,” Muthoni said. “The day you require it, it will not work.”

This kind of drug abuse is common in Kenya. People often believe that antibiotics are a quick fix for any sickness. But without expert advice, using these drugs is a gamble with your health.

The Growing Drug Abuse Problem

The misuse of antibiotics is just one part of a bigger issue. PS Muthoni pointed out that Kenya is seeing rising cases of general drug abuse, especially among young people. She revealed that one in 11 young people aged 15 to 24 is actively using a drug or substance.

This is worrying because young people are at a critical stage of growth and development. When they misuse drugs, whether it is antibiotics or other substances, it harms not only their health but also their future.

To tackle this, Muthoni is calling on everyone to take part in the fight. She asked teachers, religious leaders, parents, local leaders, and community health workers to educate people on the dangers of drug abuse.

“I call upon all stakeholders, public, private, faith-based development partners and citizens to stand united in confronting this national health issue,” she urged. “Let us join hands to create a healthier, safer and drug-free Kenya.”

How to Stay Safe and Use Medicines Correctly

PS Muthoni’s message is clear: when you feel unwell, the first step should be to visit a health facility. There, trained doctors and nurses can examine you and decide the best treatment.

She advised against rushing to buy antibiotics at the first sign of sickness. Instead, she recommended letting health professionals determine if antibiotics are even needed. This is important because not all illnesses require antibiotics.

For instance, common colds and flu are caused by viruses. Antibiotics only kill bacteria, so taking them for viral infections does nothing but harm. Over time, this misuse makes bacteria stronger and harder to kill.

Muthoni also reminded Kenyans that proper use of antibiotics means finishing the full course of treatment, even if you feel better before the medicine runs out. Stopping early can also lead to resistance.

Finally, she stressed that creating awareness is key to solving the problem. Community health talks, school programs, and church forums can all play a role in educating people about the risks of misusing antibiotics.

Warning Against Antibiotics Misuse Is a Call to Action

The government’s warning against antibiotics is a wake-up call for all Kenyans. Misusing these life-saving drugs can have serious effects—not just for individuals but for the entire nation. If bacteria become resistant, the country could face outbreaks of diseases that are impossible to treat.

Everyone has a role to play. By seeking medical advice before taking antibiotics and spreading awareness of their proper use, Kenyans can help prevent a health crisis.

The message from PS Mary Muthoni is urgent: stop self-medicating, trust health experts, and join hands in fighting the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.