The statement by Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, Chief Veterinary Officer and Chief Environmental Biosecurity Officer highlights the risks posed by AMR.
AMR occurs when disease-causing germs – viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi – change over time, so medicines designed to prevent or treat them no longer work. It affects human and animal health, agriculture, the environment and food sectors.
The joint statement reminds Australians that small steps can be effective in slowing the progress of AMR and protecting lives. The statement notes the following important messages:
- A recent modelling study estimated that more than 39 million people will die globally from AMR between 2025 and 2050 if action isn’t taken.
- Follow your health professional’s instructions when they prescribe you antimicrobial medication, such as antibiotics.
- Don’t pressure your doctor or veterinarian for antimicrobials if they say you or your animals don’t need them. Instead ask about other ways to relieve symptoms.
At the interim Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC), we are hard at work on AMR and its impacts. Along with our partners, we are working to protect human health from AMR through the Antimicrobial Use and Resistance in Australia (AURA) surveillance program.
Last month, the former head of the interim Australian CDC, Professor Paul Kelly, delivered a statement to the United Nations on behalf of Australia, Canada and New Zealand on the need for action to address AMR.
Read more about AMR and World AMR Awareness Week.