WHO reports more countries committing to tackling AMR

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that a record number of countries are now monitoring and reporting on antibiotic resistance, with 163 countries responding to the latest global survey on implementation of the Global Action Plan on addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, more than 90% of those countries noted that COVID-19 has had a negative impact on development and implementation of national plans to tackle AMR, with challenges including reduced funding and a lack of support for coordination meetings, as well as deferred activities in data collection, capacity building, and campaigns.

The WHO report that data from the survey highlights the need to expedite the prioritisation, costing, implementation and monitoring of AMR activities, and to build capacity to ensure the effective functioning of multi-sectoral coordination structures. The report also finds an overall need is required to strengthen political commitment, provide more resources, and build awareness about AMR.

Source: WHO, 11 November 2021