Kasmera (Jan 2000)
Prevalence of the I.R.A. and use of antibiotics in Pampapar, Nueva Esparta, Venezuela
Abstract
Since acute respiratory infections (ARI) are currently one of the biggest health problems in Nueva Esparta, Venezuela, in children under 5 years of age, it was considered relevant to study a group of this age and describe self-medication and antibiotic prescription practices in the ARIs by the drug dealers in the pharmacies of the Pesacadores neighborhood of Pampatar, Meneiro Municipality, Nueva Esparta, Venezuela. 53 cases of ARF were found during the survey, 55% reported the use of home remedies, 34.6% self-medicated. 51.9% of mothers take their children for consultation; 72.7% to the doctor and 18.2% to the pharmacist. The survey carried out on the workers of the 3 pharmacies visited in the territory provided the following data: 23.8% of the retailers recommend home remedies. The most recommended antibiotics were from the group of cephalosporins (66.63%), quinolones (14.51%) and macrolides (4.8%) and in that order sales were produced. The results suggest the urgent need for training of medical personnel, paramedics and the community in general in the management of ARI, as they do not conform to WHO recommendations.
