"Urgent action is needed worldwide to reduce AMR and protect our existing antibiotics"

The Australian Antimicrobial Resistance Network (AAMRNet) is Australia's leading multi stakeholder expert group formed to address the impact of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on human health. Andrew Bowskill is the CoChair of the Network and shares his insights on Asia's efforts in tackling the silent pandemic of AMR, the challenges and the way forward. Edited excerpts;

- Ayesha Siddiqui

What is being done to tackle AMR in APAC? AMR is a global problem and it requires a global response. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has developed a One Health Global Action Plan on AMR and has encouraged countries all around the world to develop their own Action Plans. The WHO Plan outlines five objectives. To improve awareness and understanding of AMR, to strengthen the knowledge and evidence base, to reduce rates of infection, to optimise the use of antimicrobials, and to help support investment in new medicines, diagnostics and vaccines. The results have been mixed, and the G7 has called for its members to step up efforts to implement their plans and take extra steps to improve access, and stimulate research and development into new antimicrobials. Many countries in the APAC region have developed AMR Action Plans, and now it is important to make sure that they are implemented. The Australian government has a National Strategy on AMR, and is undertaking a range of activities to help deliver change.

In your opinion, which APAC countries have shown significant progress in addressing AMR? What specific measures have contributed to their success?