Issue

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change in ways that render the medications used to cure the infections they cause ineffective. Resistant pathogens and resistance genes continue to spread globally and, new resistance mechanisms are emerging, threatening our ability to treat common infectious diseases, resulting in prolonged illness, disability, and death. Resistant organisms may also colonize people who are well and these organisms can then be transmitted to others. Without effective antimicrobials for prevention and treatment of infections, some common medical procedures become very high-risk. In addition to increased morbidity and mortality, AMR increases the overall cost of health care through lengthier stays in hospital and the requirement for more intensive treatment.

Strategic Objectives

• Support the Global Action Plan on AMR and the associated work of the Tripartite Plus on AMR through information sharing and building capacity to assist Action Package members in realizing and implementing their associated commitments.
• Support AMR efforts in the political space, including by keeping AMR on the agenda at the highest political levels at multiple fora and across sectors.
• Provide guidance and share best practices to assist Action Package members in developing their capacity to address AMR, including in areas identified by evaluations that include an AMR component (e.g. WHO self-assessment of country progress on addressing AMR, Joint External Evaluation, OIE Performance of Veterinary Services evaluation), to support them in reaching their goals and in complying with standards and guidelines set by international organizations.