Antimicrobial resistance is a public health priority in Victoria and a recognised health threat internationally.
What is antimicrobial resistance and why is it a threat to our health?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) refers to when micro-organisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) develop resistance to antimicrobial substances, like antibiotics. The emergence of AMR represents a real and growing threat in Victoria and across the world. It is relevant for the health of humans, animals and the environment.
Our national response
‘One Health’ is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimise the health of people, animals and ecosystems1.
In the context of AMR, a ‘One Health’ cross-sector and transdisciplinary approach - working at local, regional national and global levels – is required to achieve the best health outcomes while recognising the interconnection between people, animals, plants and their shared environment2.
Australia’s National Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy – 2020 and beyond sets out the priorities for a coordinated national response.
A wide range of items related to the response fall under the legislative, regulatory or fiscal jurisdictional responsibility of states and territories. This means the work outlined in the national strategy will often need to be done at the state and territory level.
Victoria’s response
The Victorian Government is developing the first Victorian Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy.
A comprehensive consultation process has been completed and this valuable input will help inform the objectives and priority actions of the Victorian Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy.
References
[1] World Health Organization (WHO), Tripartite and UNEP support OHHLEP's definition of "One Health", WHO, 2021, accessed 28 August 2023.
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One Health. CDC, 2021, accessed 28 August 2023.
More information
- Carbapenemase-producing organisms management guidelines
- Carbapenemase-producing organisms management - information sheets
- Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales surveillance report
- Victorian guideline on Candida auris for health services
On the Better Health Channel website:
Reviewed 30 August 2023
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