A call for global action

In 2015, WHO member states committed to the Global Action Plan on antimicrobial resistance, a blueprint for world’s action on AMR. The plan outlines the need to reduce the incidence of infection through effective sanitation, hygiene and infection prevention measures and to optimize the use of antimicrobial medicines in human and animal health.

To reach these goals, we need enhanced infection prevention and control promoted in health care facilities as well as a stronger emphasis rational use programs. These topics must also be covered in professional and continuing education of all health care professionals.

Multifaceted, coordinated approaches to promote rational use and infection prevention and control in health care facilites are urgently needed. Also, the prudent use of antibiotics is crucial to preserving existing antibiotics and improving patient outcomes. Initiatives can be done in a variety of settings and can range in size from a simple intervention to a full scale rational use program.