Combating Antimicrobial Resistance

As of 2017, the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance continues unabated around the world, leaving devastating health and economic outcomes in its wake. Those consequences will multiply if collaborative global action is not taken to address the spread of resistance. Major drivers of antimicrobial resistance in humans have been accelerated by inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing in health care practices; the inappropriate use of antimicrobials in livestock; and the promulgation of antibiotic resistance genes in the environment. To explore the issue of antimicrobial resistance, the Forum of Microbial Threats planned a public workshop. Participants explored issues of antimicrobial resistance through the lens of One Health, which is a collaborative approach of multiple disciplines - working locally, nationally, and globally - for strengthening systems to counter infectious diseases and related issues that threaten human, animal, and environmental health, with an end point of improving global health and achieving gains in development. They also discussed immediate and short-term actions and research needs that will have the greatest effect on reducing antimicrobial resistance, while taking into account the complexities of bridging different sectors and disciplines to address this global threat. This publication summarizes the presentations and discussions from the workshop. Table of Contents Front Matter 1 Introduction 2 The Global Momentum to Counter Antimicrobial Resistance 3 Microbial and Genetic Movements Across the One Health Domains 4 Applying Social and Behavioral Sciences to Combating Antimicrobial Resistance 5 Research and Development Actions for Reducing the Need for Antimicrobials 6 Strengthening Partnerships and International Cooperation 7 Moving from Knowledge to Action - Participants' Perspectives References Appendix A: Statement of Task Appendix B: Workshop Agenda Appendix C: Biographical Sketches of Workshop Speakers and Moderators