Evaluation of the UK Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Strategy, 2013-2018

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability of microorganisms to survive and thrive in the presence of antimicrobial drugs (like antibiotics). AMR is a problem when the antibiotics used to treat infections in humans and animals are less effective. This is why Governments and health systems around the world are trying to slow the development of AMR.

PIRU has evaluated how the UK Government’s Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Strategy (2013-2018) was used. The objective of the Strategy was to slow the development and spread of AMR, by things like improving prescribing of antibiotics and infection prevention and control measures for both animals and people.

The PIRU evaluation explored the implementation of the Strategy in human and animal health across the UK. This was a large programme of research examining a wide range of topics, including how data are used to monitor and reduce AMR, AMR in the food chain (how our food is produced and processed), and what the UK has done to stimulate an international effort to reduce AMR. As part of this work, the study looked at how AMR is being managed in local health services across different parts of the UK in Camden, West Norfolk, Blackburn with Darwen, Betsi Cadwaladr, Derry/Londonderry and Glasgow; in the pigs and poultry livestock sectors, and in pets.