Dr Marie-Paule Kieny, Assistant Director-General for Health Systems and Innovation, and Dr Keiji Fukuda, Special Representative for Antimicrobial Resistance, talk about antimicrobial resistance (AMR)—what it is, why you should be concerned, and what you can do about it.
AMR happens when microorganisms—including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites—change when they are exposed to antimicrobial drugs such as antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimalarials, and anthelmintics. Microorganisms that develop antimicrobial resistance are sometimes referred to as “superbugs”. As a result of misuse of antimicrobial medicines, AMR is increasing and medicines are becoming ineffective. We all have a role to play in tackling AMR.
