World AMR Awareness Week

Antimicrobial resistance is the ability of microorganisms (such as bacteria) to stop an antimicrobial from working effectively. Whilst antimicrobials have the potential to treat infections, use of antimicrobials can also contribute to the problem of antimicrobial resistance.

What are antimicrobials - Graphic

2024

Poster or graphic

Antimicrobials are lifesaving medications, but only if they work against the organism causing infection. AMR may impact on life saving health care, such as cancer treatments or organ transplants, if antimicrobials are not able to be effective in preventing infections that are commonly associated with these procedures.

Antimicrobial resistance is already affecting the care of patients, and current trends indicate AMR will have an increasing impact over time.

The World Health Organization has described AMR as one of the greatest threats to human and animal health, as well as food and agriculture. Each year, hundreds of people die in Australia as a result of antimicrobial resistance. 

Unlike many other medications, the development of antimicrobial resistance from the over use of antimicrobials can affect not only the patient needing treatment now, but also patients and the wider community into the future. Antimicrobial use inevitably leads to resistance, but overuse of antimicrobials has accelerated this process. Some antimicrobials are no longer able to be used to treat infections.

It is important to take antimicrobials as prescribed by doctors and not to pressure doctors for antimicrobials if they feel they won’t help your situation. Saving antimicrobial prescriptions for later or taking someone else’s can mean you aren’t getting the right antimicrobial, at the right dose, for your needs. Recent Australian data published by the Commission shows continuing concerning patterns of antimicrobial use in Australia. 

The development of new antimicrobials is challenging, expensive, and takes a long time to deliver to market. Because of this, the number of new antimicrobials has been decreasing over time. However, appropriate use of antimicrobials is required, regardless of the supply.

We must ensure that antimicrobials are only taken when they are absolutely needed, in the most appropriate way for the shortest period of time. It is an issue that demands action on every level, from individuals, governments and major organisations around the world. Without urgent action, infections and minor injuries could once again become fatal.