Resistant bacteria do not care about international borders. This is why it is important to collaborate with other countries in fighting antimicrobial resistance. If we can reduce the numbers of resistant bacteria, the entire world will benefit. RIVM collaborates with other countries and shares any information it uncovers when tracking antimicrobial resistance. RIVM also helps others to use this information in specific operations to fight resistance. All international activities focus, to some extent, on the work that is being done here in the Netherlands and on transferring details of the findings. RIVM focuses specifically on surveillance, AMR in the environment, and One Health.

Bacteria that are resistant to antimicrobials are not only found in people, they also occur in animals, in our food, and in the environment. Resistant bacteria from these sources can then spread to people or other animals. There are many routes by which resistant bacteria can spread. It is important to have a thorough understanding of how specific types of bacteria are spread. That will enable us to develop and apply effective measures.

Care institutions, such as hospitals and nursing homes, are places where resistant bacteria can easily develop and spread. For this reason, these institutions have guidelines for the use of antimicrobials and for the care of patients

RIVM animation 'Antibiotic resistance: why do some antibiotics fail?'

RIVM keeps track of the current state of affairs with regard to antimicrobial resistance in the Netherlands, and advises the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport of its findings. In this regard, it is important for the parties tackling antibiotic resistance to keep each other informed.