Attendance an online digital event on Nov. 21, 2024 entitled “Role of pharmacists in the management of sore throat”. The event was offered by International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP).

Description: A sore throat was identified as a common symptom, often stemming from upper respiratory tract infections, the majority of which were viral in origin. While it was a self-limiting condition, it frequently led individuals to seek advice from community pharmacists and remained one of the leading causes of unnecessary antibiotic use.

A sore throat was associated with various conditions, including strep throat, the common cold, allergies, and other upper respiratory illnesses. Strep throat, a less common bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus, required antibiotic treatment to prevent potential complications.

Pharmacists played a crucial role in identifying and managing symptoms through both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. They were also instrumental in referring patients for appropriate prescriptions and educating them about the risks associated with improper antibiotic use.

Chairs:

- Catia Caneiras, FIP AMR Commission Co-Chair, Portugal.

- Luna ElBizri, FIP AMR Commission Member, Lebanon.

Panellists:

• Efi Mantzourani, Professor in Pharmacy Practice, Cardiff University, Wales, UK.

• Dalal Hammoudi, Common Year Coordinator – Academic Quality. Department – QU Health Sector, Qatar University, Qatar.

• Ahmed Elshafei, Professor Associate, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Egypt.

• Leonila Ocampo, Executive Committee, Western Pacific. Pharmaceutical Forum, Community Pharmacy Section Philippine Pharmacists Association, Philippines.