Antimicrobial Resistance in the UK: Diagnostics and Surveillance
23 November 2023 publication
The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most urgent global threats to public health in the 21st century. AMR refers to disease-causing microbes (also known as pathogens) evolving and gaining resistance to drugs and substances that were once effective treatments against infections (antimicrobials). It poses significant challenges to current clinical care, health economies, animal and plant health as well as the environment. Microbiologists from across the world are committed to developing innovative solutions to combat AMR and reduce its impact on global health.
Developing solutions to AMR is a global health priority. Effective diagnostics and surveillance systems are vital to helping us monitor the spread of resistant infections and safeguard existing antimicrobial medicines. Delivery of diagnostic solutions and strong surveillance systems will require consistent government support, including: funding for research on diagnostic technologies; financial incentives for the development and commercialisation of diagnostic technology; the delivery of robust national action plans and crucially, the facilitation of cross-sector collaboration.
The Microbiology Society is taking a solutions focused approach with the ‘Knocking Out AMR’ project, by working with its members to facilitate collaborations, acting as a conduit for knowledge and evidence and bridging the gap between research and policy. We have access to experts across sectors and are well-placed to support the Government in its efforts to tackle AMR.
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