A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) details significant global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, these organizations have made notable strides in raising awareness, improving surveillance, and strengthening governance structures to address AMR.
The Global Threat of Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global issue that threatens the effectiveness of medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. As these microorganisms evolve and become resistant to drugs, the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death increases. The cost of AMR is staggering, with nearly 5 million deaths associated with it in 2019 alone. The World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) have united to combat this silent pandemic through the implementation of the Global Action Plan on AMR (GAP-AMR).
Raising Awareness Amid a Pandemic
One of the primary objectives of the GAP-AMR is to improve awareness and understanding of AMR. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, significant strides have been made. The World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) has been expanded to include all antimicrobials and is now celebrated annually from November 18-24. This initiative promotes responsible habits and practices among the public, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to help stop the spread of drug-resistant infections.
The WHO regional offices have actively supported countries in participating in WAAW campaigns. For instance, the WHO African Region launched the "Resist the Resistance" campaign, providing fact sheets, testimonials, and informational videos. Meanwhile, the WHO Region of the Americas organized a regional dialogue on the role of the community in the AMR response, reaching millions through their efforts.
Strengthening Surveillance and Research
To effectively combat AMR, it is crucial to strengthen the knowledge and evidence base through surveillance and research. WHO's Global AMR and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) has played a pivotal role in this regard. GLASS provides a standardized approach to collecting, analyzing, and sharing national AMR data. The system has rapidly expanded, now covering 72% of the world's population, and has revealed alarming levels of resistance in bacteria causing life-threatening infections.
In addition to surveillance, the FAO has supported countries in implementing AMR monitoring systems in the food and agriculture sectors. WOAH has similarly focused on animal health, promoting responsible antimicrobial use and strengthening veterinary services to prevent the spread of AMR.
Governance and Coordination for a United Front
A critical aspect of the fight against AMR is the establishment of robust governance structures. The Quadripartite Joint Secretariat (QJS) on AMR was formed to enhance global coordination and governance. This body works to mobilize resources, strengthen political commitments, and support countries in implementing their national action plans (NAPs) for AMR.
Financial support is essential for sustaining these efforts. The AMR Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF) has been established to provide the necessary funding for AMR-related activities. This fund is vital for ensuring that countries have the resources needed to implement effective AMR interventions.
Environmental Dimensions and Future Actions
Addressing the environmental dimensions of AMR is another key focus area. Pollution and contaminated environments play a significant role in the development and spread of AMR. The report calls for integrated actions across human, animal, and environmental health sectors to effectively tackle AMR. Strengthening the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of these sectors, is essential for mitigating the burden of AMR.
Looking ahead, the report highlights several areas for accelerated action. These include greater political engagement, robust governance structures, adequate financial resources, and increased awareness and education about AMR. Enforcing regulations on the prescription, use, and disposal of antimicrobials is also crucial to prevent contamination of food and the environment.
The battle against antimicrobial resistance is far from over, but significant progress has been made. The first quadripartite biennial report on implementing the global action plan on AMR provides a comprehensive overview of the efforts undertaken by WHO, FAO, UNEP, and WOAH. As the global community prepares for the United Nations General Assembly High-level Meeting on AMR in 2024, this report offers valuable insights and motivation for urgent action. Ensuring that antimicrobials remain effective for treating infections in humans, animals, and plants is crucial for achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.