Did you know that more than half of the antibiotics prescribed today may no longer work when you need them most?

If you are on antibiotics, how you take them could determine whether they save your life—or fuel the global menace of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

At Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), one of the key ways we are tackling this challenge is through culture testing. This laboratory process helps doctors identify the exact germ causing an infection before settling on the right antibiotic. Instead of treating blindly, culture testing ensures patients are placed on the most effective drug from the start. While it may seem like an extra step, it actually saves time, lowers costs, and prevents misuse of antibiotics.

We also guide patients on how to track their antibiotic use. After about three days of medication, patients are encouraged to return for a review to confirm whether the treatment is working or needs adjustment. Proper storage is also emphasized: some antibiotics, especially liquids, lose their strength when exposed to heat or when their colour changes so such medicines should not be used.

Dr. Neto Obala, Director of Quality Services at JOOTRH, warns that resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics such as ceftriaxone is already above 50%. This means many patients no longer respond to it, obliging doctors to use second-line drugs that are up to 20 times more expensive. By prioritizing culture testing and responsible antibiotic use, JOOTRH is cutting costs for families while improving treatment outcomes.

Backed by its Antimicrobial Stewardship Committee and partnerships with Oxford, Cambridge,Fleming and MAP-AMR, University of Nairobi (UON) and Maseno University, JOOTRH is leading research, education, and patient awareness in the fight against AMR. “It’s not about stronger antibiotics, but about using the right drug, for the right infection, at the right time.”