Impact of a pharmacist-driven pharmacovigilance system in a secondary hospital in the Gauteng Province of South Africa.

Background And Aims: Under-reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) by health-care professionals (HCPs) is a worldwide problem. Spontaneous reporting in hospitals is scarce and several obstacles have been identified for this. Improved hospital-based reports could make important contributions to future care.

Knowledge, attitudes and perspective on adverse drug reaction reporting in a public sector hospital in South Africa: baseline analysis.

Objective: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) can cause significant harm in patients; however, ADRs are under-reported in many countries, including South Africa, where evidence of a pharmacovigilance (PV) system to monitor and manage ADRs is a requirement for compliance with norms and standards for quality healthcare delivery. We conducted an analysis amongst health care professionals (HCPs) at Sebokeng Hospital to assess the situation there and make recommendations.

Methods: Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire, targeting all medical practitioners, nurses, pharmacists and pharmacist assistants in the hospital.

Early warning indicators for HIV drug resistance in adults in South Africa at 2 pilot sites, 2008-2010.

Background: Approximately 5.2 million people in South Africa were infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by the year 2010, with just over 30% initiated on highly active antiretroviral therapy by 2011. With such numbers involved, the potential for the emergence of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) is high.