In focus
The increasing resistance to antibiotics and lack of antibiotics with new mechanisms of action against Gram-negative bacteria has caused the revival of old, formerly abandoned, drugs as last options. The first ones to regain popularity were the polymyxins, colistin and polymyxin B. Developed in the 1950s, the polymyxins fell out of favor due to toxic adverse effects such as kidney damage and affecting the nervous system. Current, more pure, formulations coupled with better understanding of their pharmacology have made the adverse reactions more rare and manageable.
ReAct is an independent network dedicated to the problem of antibiotic resistance. ReAct is a global catalyst, advocating and stimulating for global engagement on antibiotic resistance through a broad range of collaborations.
In the last 70 years the use of antibiotics has been crucial in improving countless lives and drastically reducing deaths caused by bacterial infections. The increasing development of antibiotic resistance is posing a serious threat to human health and development, the environment and for animal health. Learn more about ReAct’s work on antibiotic resistance here.
News
To learn more about our microbiome, read the new ReAct factsheet on the topic: “All You Wanted to Know About Microbes But Were Afraid to Ask… The Human Microbiome”.
In focus
Along with the recommendations on antibiotics, the WHO Expert Committee on the Selection of Essential Medicines urged that an Essential Diagnostics List (EDL) be developed. Like the Essential Medicines List, the EDL would provide evidence-based guidance to countries to create their own national lists of essential diagnostic tests and tools.
News
Antibiotic resistance is a pressing global challenge that requires a concerted response by all members of society. Everyone can do their own part to address the growing threat. Journalists play an important role to spread and share information to other stakeholders. It is important to guide these professionals in their communications around the complex issue of antibiotic resistance and encourage them to join ReAct in the call to action.
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After almost three years of participation in the research project DRIVE-AB, ReAct has decided to withdraw from the project. Read our full statement here.
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Beginning of May, ReAct and EPN in partnership with the AMR Media Network Kenya conducted a one-day media training on antimicrobial resistance. The purpose was to raise awareness among journalists on antimicrobial resistance as a major public health challenge. The day was hosted by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).
The ReAct Toolbox is a user-friendly web-based resource that provides inspiration and guidance to take action and develop national action plans on antibiotic resistance. It is built on what has been done in the past in a variety of settings, and is aligned with ongoing and current initiatives from across the globe.
ReAct is a global network of antibiotic resistance experts with nodes in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America and North America.
Involved in developing your country's National Action Plan? Here you find support for developing a comprehensive plan.
Doctors, pharmacists, veterinarians and other health care professionals - you have the power to take action! Learn more about how to get started.
Engagement from civil society organizations and communities is needed to tackle antibiotic resistance. Learn more about how to get involved.