(282) Progress toward implementation of national antimicrobial resistance action plans, including use of the internet

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat. At the 2015 World Health Assembly, member states pledged to implement national AMR action plans (NAAPs). Progress toward implementation of the NAAPs is monitored through a self-assessment survey.

Objectives: Our objective was to assess the use of the internet –– by countries that have reported the most progress in their NAAPs –– to disseminate AMR data and activities to promote antimicrobial stewardship.

Methods: We analyzed responses to the 2023 Tracking AMR Country Self-Assessment Survey (TrACSS, www.amrcountryprogress.org) in four areas: development of NAAPs, establishment of national AMR surveillance, optimization of antimicrobial use, and raising AMR awareness. Countries which scored high on these survey questions were further assessed for availability of online information about AMR surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship.

Results: Of 194 member states, 177 (91%) responded to the 2023 TrACSS survey. Fifty-two (27%) countries were selected for further assessment.
(1) NAAP development: Of the 52 included countries, 29 (55.8%) countries reported that an NAAP was funded and implemented, while 18 (34.6%) indicated that they had approved plans without a budget. 48 (92.3%) countries have their NAAPs accessible on the internet.
(2) National AMR surveillance implementation: 32 (67.3%) countries reported existence of a standardized system, and 12 (23.1%) indicated that AMR data were linked with antimicrobial usage in human health. For 45 (86.5%) countries, information about their surveillance systems was found on the internet.
(3) Optimization of antimicrobial use: 37 (71.2%) countries stated that guidelines were implemented in healthcare facilities, and 11 (21.2%) reported that feedback on antimicrobial use is systematically provided to prescribers. AMR data for 32 (61.5%) countries were accessible on the internet.
(4) Raising AMR awareness: Respondents from 37 (71.2%) countries indicated that their countries had nationwide campaigns supported by the government, and those from 15 (28.8%) stated that these campaigns were routinely implemented. Reports or news on AMR awareness campaigns were found on the internet for 37 (71.2%) countries.

Conclusions: Many countries have taken steps toward the implementation of NAAPs to address the threat of antimicrobial resistance. To advance NAAPs, the internet could be further leveraged to engage prescribers through the dissemination of AMR data, educational opportunities, and antimicrobial use guidelines.