# Antibiotic Resistance Awareness in Kosovo: Insights from the WHO Antibiotic Resistance: Multi-Country Public Awareness Survey

## TL;DR

This study explores public understanding of antibiotic resistance in Kosovo, finding that while awareness is high, misconceptions remain about how resistance develops and proper antibiotic use.

## Contribution

The study provides the first detailed assessment of public awareness and misconceptions about antibiotic resistance in Kosovo.

## Key findings

- 75% of participants had heard of antibiotic resistance, but few understood key terms.
- 67% knew to complete a prescribed antibiotic course, while 29% believed stopping early was acceptable.
- Women and more educated individuals showed better awareness of proper antibiotic use.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global health threat, rendering common bacterial infections increasingly difficult to treat and placing considerable strain on healthcare systems. This study assesses public awareness, perceptions, and behaviors related to antibiotic use and AMR in Kosovo, a country with limited existing data on the topic. Methods: Using a cross-sectional survey design, 568 participants from diverse demographic backgrounds provided insights into their knowledge and practices concerning antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance. Results: The results revealed that although 75% of participants had heard of antibiotic resistance, only a limited proportion understood key terms. Knowledge of appropriate antibiotic use varied, with 67% of respondents correctly recognizing the need to complete a prescribed antibiotic course, while 29% believed it was acceptable to stop treatment once they felt better. Gender and educational level emerged as significant factors, with women and more educated individuals demonstrating greater awareness of proper antibiotic use and the risks of misuse. While 71% of respondents considered it unacceptable to use antibiotics prescribed to others, 41% believed it was acceptable to reuse previously effective antibiotics. Most participants (96%) reported obtaining antibiotics through prescriptions. Public awareness of AMR was generally high, but conceptual understanding remained limited, with misconceptions about the origins of resistance, incorrectly attributing it to the human body rather than bacteria. Conclusions: Targeted public health campaigns, guided by the One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health, are needed. A multifaceted strategy, including education, policy reforms, and international collaboration, is essential to mitigate AMR and preserve the efficacy of antibiotics for future generations.