Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) happens when microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites) change and grow resistant to the antimicrobial drugs (such as antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimalarials and anthelmintics) that are used to treat the infections they cause.  Microorganisms that develop AMR are sometimes referred to as “superbugs,” as they are unable to be treated with effective medicines, resulting in persistent infections and increasing the risk of spreading the infection to others.  Antimicrobial resistance is an increasingly serious threat to global public health.

The misuse and overuse of antimicrobials by humans and the agricultural industry is accelerating the process of antimicrobial resistance. China issued a 2016-2020 One Health National Action Plan to Contain Antimicrobial Resistance with 14 ministries to ensure a clear multi-sectoral approach to tackling this growing issue. China’s health authorities have taken measures to reduce the use of antimicrobials among hospital inpatients – with rates dropping from 59.4% in 2011 to 36% in 2019.