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
- Animal Health – National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship (NCAS)
- Australian veterinary prescribing guidelines (NCAS)
- AMR resources – Australian Veterinary Association (AVA)
- Information for veterinary practice – Australian Government
- Information for veterinarians and veterinary staff – Agriculture Victoria
- Animal Medicines Australia