Antimicrobial resistance is not a new problem but one that is becoming more dangerous; urgent and consolidated efforts are needed to avoid regressing to the pre-antibiotic era. April 7th, World Health Day 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO) calls on governments and stakeholders to implement the policies and practices needed to prevent and counter the emergence of microorganisms resistant to current therapies.
Antibiotics are among the most important advances in human health, but their use and misuse over the past 70 years have increased the number and types of microorganisms resistant to antibiotics – resulting in deaths, greater suffering and disability and higher healthcare costs. The challenge posed to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries is loud and clear – only seven new antibiotics have been introduced since 2003. Most European countries participate annually in a campaign that aims to raise awareness on how to use antibiotics in a responsible way that will help keep them effective for the future. Neither Québec or Canada have participated in this campaign.
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