Antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobials, such as antibiotics, are substances that kill or stop the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. Antibiotics are specifically used to target the bacteria responsible for an infection or disease and are commonly used in veterinary and human medicine. However, the emergence of resistant bacteria due to continued, and sometimes indiscriminate, use of antimicrobials in humans and animals poses a serious risk to public health. The challenge is to minimise the threat from antimicrobial resistance and to ensure that antimicrobial effectiveness is preserved for health. For it, appropriate and responsible use of antimicrobials, including antibiotics, is urgently required by all.