Why is Antimicrobial Stewardship Important?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines such as antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics. This makes infections harder to treat and increases the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death due to inappropriate use of antimicrobials.
Top 10
Global public health threat according to WHO
5 million
Goal
Our goal is to enhance our Antimicrobial Stewardship programme across all IHH Healthcare hospitals, in line with US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization and national guidelines by 2025.
Key Target
- To have 100% of our hospitals enhance AMR interventions in line with US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization and national guidelines by 2025.
2023 Progress
- 100% of our hospitals established Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme (ASP) committees and developed country-specific guidelines, covering common infections and common procedures.
Did You Know?
1 in 3
Use antibiotics without a prescription
9 out of 10
Sore throats gain no benefit from antibiotics
Without effective antimicrobials, the success rate of treating infections severely diminishes. We firmly advocate against the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials.
What We’re Doing
IHH’s Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme promotes the responsible use of antimicrobials, aiming to improve patient outcomes, reduce AMR and decrease the spread of infections caused by drug-resistant superbugs.
We enhance our Antimicrobial Stewardship programmes by adopting US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization guidelines, and adhering to local health regulations, while also educating doctors, nurses, patients and the public on prescribing, dispensing and consuming antimicrobials responsibly.
Be Part of the Solution
Everyone can be part of the efforts to tackle AMR by simply using antimicrobials (such as antibiotics) responsibly.
Follow your doctor’s exact instructions and use antibiotics responsibly
Adopt a healthy lifestyle and practice good hygiene
Get timely vaccinations for yourself and loved ones
Do not insist on being prescribed antibiotics and do not self-medicate or adjust dosages on your own
Do not share your antibiotics with anyone
