Global health has climbed higher on the political agenda in recent years, with a focus on addressing Universal Health Coverage, tuberculosis, Pandemic Prevention Preparedness and Response, progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, and AMR. As the global community tackles these issues, it is essential to prioritize infection prevention best practices. Combatting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and strengthening infection prevention are integral to keeping societies healthy and preventing disease and future pandemics.
The overuse and misuse of antimicrobial medicines are contributing to the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which makes the medications progressively less effective. AMR is a global crisis, contributing to nearly five million deaths every year. In response to this growing concern, the World Health Organization (WHO) established a classification system for antimicrobial drugs in 2017.
The recent World AMR Awareness Week aimed to raise awareness and understanding of AMR and promote best practices to reduce the emergence and spread of drug-resistant infections. It’s crucial to educate the public about the proper use of antimicrobial medications and the risks associated with their overuse.
To address the skyrocketing rate of antimicrobial resistance, coordinated action involving multiple stakeholders across different areas of healthcare and society is required. Prioritizing infection prevention, combatting AMR, and promoting best practices in healthcare facilities are crucial steps towards keeping societies healthy and preventing future pandemics. It is essential to understand the long-term health implications of the increased use of antibiotics and take robust measures to combat antimicrobial resistance.
