What is AMR?
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to the medicines used against them. Infections can become harder to treat and spread more easily.
Antimicrobials include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics. Antibiotic resistance is one part of this wider challenge.
Why it matters
Effective antimicrobial medicines make modern care possible. Drug-resistant infections can complicate everyday treatment, surgery and cancer care. Resistance also affects animal health, agriculture, food security and the environment.
How resistance spreads
Resistant microorganisms can move between people, animals, food, water and the environment. Inappropriate antimicrobial use, gaps in infection prevention, unsafe water and sanitation, and limited access to diagnostics and quality care all contribute.
Actions that help
- Use antimicrobial medicines only on advice from an appropriately qualified health or veterinary professional and follow treatment instructions.
- Prevent infections through hand hygiene, safe food handling, vaccination and safe water and sanitation.
- Do not share medicines or use someone else’s prescription.
- Ask a pharmacist or local health service about safe disposal of unused medicines.
- Support responsible use and infection prevention in homes, health facilities, farms and communities.
For treatment decisions, seek advice from a qualified health professional.