Operational research to strengthen evidence-based interventions to tackle antimicrobial resistance in the Region of the Americas

Abstract

[EXTRACT] Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is known to be among the most substantial threats to public health around the world. Mainly associated with the over- and misuse of antimicrobials in human and veterinary medicine and agriculture, AMR was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Limiting the emergence and spread of AMR pathogens is critical to preserving the ability to treat diseases in humans, animals, and plants; to enhancing food safety; and to protecting the environment. This special issue of the Pan American Journal of Public Health is dedicated to operational research initiatives to strengthen evidence-based interventions to tackle AMR in the Region of the Americas. This is a joint effort among PAHO and the WHO TDR program and various SORT IT partners. This issue presents a select number of scientific studies conducted in Colombia and Ecuador and seeks to generate scientific evidence on relevant aspects of One Health. The findings of these studies have generated evidence that will strengthen AMR action plans in Colombia and Ecuador.