The ESCMID AMR Action Subcommittee was created to help tackle the serious threat that Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) poses to modern medicine and global health. AMR occurs when infection-causing microorganisms evolve and adapt, rendering the drugs against them ineffective. This phenomenon makes infections harder to treat, raising the risk of spread, and ultimately endangering human lives. The AMR challenge now extends beyond how patients are treated and into how research is conducted, making it a top strategic priority for ESCMID.
AMR crosses borders, affecting different geographical, cultural, and socio-economic landscapes. A resistant infection born in one corner of the world can easily become a global threat, as people, animals, and goods move across countries and continents. This unavoidable web of connections highlights the need for a coordinated, international response to AMR. Central to this response is the pursuit of research and development, propelling the innovation of new antimicrobial agents to outpace the rapid evolution of pathogens. Encouraging breakthroughs, incentivising the pharmaceutical industry, and supporting ground-breaking research are vital strategies in combating AMR.
The fight against AMR is not confined to laboratories and policies alone, it is a collective challenge that demands individual action as well. This comes in the form of ensuring responsible use of antibiotics, adherence to prescribed treatment courses, and advocating for policies. Education and awareness campaigns are also instrumental in fostering a global culture of antimicrobial stewardship.
This subcommittee was created to help coordinate and promote ESCMID's AMR-related activities, increasing visibility to relevant stakeholders. Its members support ESCMID activities across all relevant portfolios to ensure that alarming AMR threats are being properly addressed.
The AMR Action Subcommittee works to consolidate all AMR-related activities of ESCMID under one guiding hand. These activities range from web series, publications, research funding and joint initiatives with other international organisations.
The ESCMID AMR Action Subcommittee includes a director and seven supporting officers, each taking on an important role: Science Officer, Secretary, Education Officer, Event Support Officer, International Policy Officer, Communications Officer and an ad hoc Young Scientist Representative.
Each participating member dedicates their time and effort to helping address the rising dangers of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) that threaten our global health. They help facilitate advancements in AMR research and policy change through education and communication activities.
