Improving infection prevention and control to prevent the spread of antimicrobial resistance

WHO supports countries to reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through the strengthening of infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, such as effective sanitation and hygiene in all settings providing health care.

IPC is essential to fight the development and spread of AMR. Every infection prevented reduces the need for and use of antimicrobials, such as antibiotics.

AMR occurs when bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi become resistant to antimicrobial medicines that are used to treat the infections they cause. As a result of AMR, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections increasingly difficult – or even impossible – to treat.

IPC is a practical, evidence-based approach to prevent avoidable infections, including those caused by AMR pathogens. In the WHO European Region, health care-associated infections (HAIs) are among the most frequent adverse events occurring in the context of health service delivery. No country is free of HAIs. They are an ongoing problem and are of particular concern in the context of the global burden of AMR.

WHO supports countries to implement the minimum requirements of the evidence-based core components of IPC programmes through a tailored, country-focused approach. This includes the development and implementation of national IPC improvement plans and HAI surveillance strategies.

The publication of IPC resources is an important component of this work, making it easier for countries to follow recommendations, as well as to implement training and assess staff.