Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial resistance refers to microbes’ ability to change and become less susceptible to drugs. The development of antimicrobial drugs (antibacterials [antibiotics], antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics) to treat otherwise life-threatening infections has been one of the most notable medical achievements in human history. The growing problem of resistance has undermined antimicrobials’ effectiveness resulting in the loss of countless lives and placing public health and national security at serious risk. IDSA is working on several policy fronts to counter these “bad bugs” and to save lives.

If you or a loved one have been devastated by an antibiotic resistant bacterial infection and you would like to share your story, please contact John Heys. 

IDSA Initiatives to Address the Growing Antimicrobial Resistance Problem