Ireland's latest AMR strategy, the One Health National Action Plan (iNAP3), addresses the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to public health. The plan, jointly announced by the Minister for Health and the Minister for Agriculture, emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. With the World Health Organisation declaring AMR as one of the top global health threats, the strategy aims to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials for future generations. The plan outlines measures to strengthen infection prevention, improve diagnostics, and promote responsible antimicrobial use, while also calling for enhanced surveillance and biosecurity in agriculture. The Health Service Executive (HSE) warns of the accelerating pace of antibiotic resistance, comparing its health impact to influenza, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS combined. Dr. Eimear Brannigan highlights the reliance on antibiotics in routine operations and the emergence of resistant strains, or 'superbugs', due to widespread use. The HSE's five-year AMR and Infection Control Action Plan aligns with iNAP3, setting priorities for awareness, surveillance, infection spread reduction, antibiotic use optimization, research, and governance. Dr. Scott Walkin emphasizes the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against viral illnesses and the importance of vaccination in preventing viral infections. The iNAP3 strategy builds on previous initiatives, focusing on infection prevention, diagnostic improvements, and responsible antimicrobial use in human and veterinary medicine. It aims to strengthen surveillance, biosecurity, and drive behavioural change through public awareness campaigns. The economic toll of AMR in Europe is significant, causing over 35,000 deaths annually and costing healthcare systems an estimated €1.1 billion per year. Global projections suggest AMR could lead to GDP losses of up to US$3.4 trillion per year by 2030. The EU has set ambitious targets for 2030, including a 20% reduction in antibiotic use and ensuring 65% of antibiotics are first-line treatments. However, progress has been mixed, with some infections rising despite the targets set.
