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.

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.