AMR is a critical global health challenge, threatening the effective treatment of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi.
Infection is a common cause of death in the UK population, associated with over 87,000 deaths annually – similar to the number of deaths from ischaemic heart disease. In the UK in 2019, there were 7,600 deaths attributable to AMR and 35,200 deaths associated with AMR.The additional burden of AMR on the NHS includes increased primary care appointments, hospital admissions, bed occupancy, and length of stay.
In May 2024, the UK’s second 5-year action plan for AMR was published. This plan sets out ambitions and measures of success to ensure progress towards the UK’s 20-year vision for addressing AMR. Key NAP outcomes and corresponding human health targets are set out in the table below:
