Antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobials include all medicines that selectively kill, prevent or inhibit the growth of an organism. The most well-known antimicrobial group is antibiotics.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs naturally in organisms such as:

  • bacteria
  • viruses
  • fungi
  • parasites.

This ability allows them to grow in the presence of antimicrobial levels that would normally stop the growth of or kill the organism.

Risks of antimicrobial resistance

Inappropriate use of antimicrobials accelerates the development and spread of resistance to organisms that were previously susceptible.

Resistance is an issue with anti-parasitic medicines, particularly those used to treat gastrointestinal worms in livestock.

AMR poses a significant risk to both humans and animals, because antibiotic resistant infections can be difficult or even impossible to treat.

Learn more in Australia’s National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Strategy 2015–2019.

Resources for veterinarians

Emergency Animal Disease Hotline

Suspected disease or pests in livestock, poultry or aquatic animals must be reported immediately.

Call us to help stop the spread of animal illness, even if you are unsure of the disease.

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Freecall 1800 675 888
Page last reviewed: 15 Nov 2023

 


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