Limiting the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance: that is the main goal of the national strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The intended outcome is that infections can continue to be treated effectively with antibiotics in the future.

RIVM carries out a range of activities to monitor antibiotics use and the number of infections with resistant bacteria.  

Compared to their European colleagues, Dutch general practitioners (GPs) are cautious when it comes to prescribing antibiotics – and for good reason, as unnecessary antibiotics use increases the risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and needlessly exposes patients to side effects. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement in the Netherlands as well as elsewhere.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a threat to public health. To protect ourselves against AMR, we need to know how often and where these multi-resistant microorganisms occur and if there are any trends to identify. The Netherlands Medical Microbiological Laboratories (MMLs) exchange relevant data with the National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM). RIVM systematically collects and analyses this data to gain insight into the spread of infections. The information outcome is presented to healthcare providers to help them prevent infections. To start prevention at an early stage, sharing information should be faster, better and unambiguous. That is why we need common language.

Resistant bacteria do not stop at national borders. This is why it is important to collaborate with other countries in fighting antimicrobial resistance. If the numbers of resistant bacteria reduce in other countries, the Netherlands will also benefit.

Bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics are found not only in humans, but also in animals, in our food and in the environment. From here, resistant bacteria can spread to humans or other animals. There are several routes through which resistant bacteria can spread. It is important to know exactly how different bacteria are spread, so that we can develop and implement effective measures.

Healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes, are places where resistant bacteria can occur and spread easily. That is why there are several guidelines for antibiotics use and patient care. The government and the healthcare sector have set additional targets to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) further in the years ahead.