AMA applauds UN for taking step to combat antimicrobial resistance

"As concerns continue to mount over the global public health threat posed by antimicrobial resistance, the AMA commends the United Nations (UN) for taking a major step this week aimed at combatting this growing public health epidemic. The UN's newly adopted declaration will help shine a much needed spotlight on the dangers of antimicrobial resistance and help ensure the appropriate use of antibiotics in humans and animals to help limit the spread of disease.

"With a decline in the effectiveness of available antibiotics, it is extremely important that we continue to take steps to ensure the appropriate use of antibiotics across all settings. The AMA will continue to do its part to educate physicians on the importance of antibiotic stewardship in the inpatient and outpatient settings and provide them with the latest tools to help alleviate uncertainty when prescribing antibiotics."