HK Gov’t Maps Out Response Strategies to Prevent Resistance to Antibiotics

The government has launched a Strategy & Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) to fight the threat of AMR in the following years 2023-2027, according to a Nov. 17 press release.

The World Health Organisation has declared that AMR is one of the top 10 global public health issues, calling for an international multisectoral response in 2021.

AMR is the result of drug resistance, when bacteria and other viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve over time to no longer respond to treatments – which increases the spread of diseases, causing the development of severe illnesses, and death.

“Through the ‘One Health’ approach, with the joint efforts of relevant government departments and organisations, in implementing the first Action Plan over the past five years, positive outcomes have been achieved in minimising the emergence and preventing the spread of AMR in Hong Kong,” said a government spokesperson.

With the “one health” approach, the government has united the relevant government departments to minimise the spread of AMR in Hong Kong. The second Action Plan was launched yesterday to prepare for the next stage, which focuses on resistance in bacteria.

The six areas of the second Action Plan will focus on, include surveillance and research, optimising antimicrobial use in humans and animals, sanitation and hygiene, increasing public awareness, researching AMR, and enhancing partnership between relevant stakeholders.

“The Action Plan provides guidance not only for public health and veterinary partners, but also to coordinate efforts from all sectors from all sectors of the community. Clear objectives and time-bound indicators were also set to facilitate the monitoring and evaluation of the Action Plan,” said the spokesperson.

In the meantime, members of the public are encouraged to practise proper antibiotic use, such as not requesting more than necessary amounts of antibiotics, avoiding self-purchase of antibiotics, and practising good hygiene.

Learn more about the Action Plan and AMR here.