Virology

Biography

Biography: Gamal El Sawaf

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability of a microorganism (bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi) to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs which include antibiotics, antivirals, antimalarials and antifungal. Microorganisms resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents are called multidrug resistant (MDR) or superbugs. Resistant microorganisms are increasingly difficult to treat, requiring alternative medications or higher doses which may be more costly or more toxic and poses a fundamental threat to human health, development and security. Antibiotic resistance is now a major threat to public health. A World Health Organization (WHO) report released April 2014 stated this serious threat is no longer a prediction for the future; it is happening right now in every region of the world and has the potential to affect anyone, of any age, in any country. Worldwide antimicrobial resistance is not fully mapped but poorer and developing countries with weak health care systems are more affected. Within the broader context of antimicrobial resistance and the fact that resistance does not recognize political borders, resistance to antibiotics is considered the greatest and most urgent global risk requiring international and national attention. The aim of this workshop is to explore the magnitude of the problem especially in developing countries, to share knowledge and experience and to put strategies and recommendation to strengthen regulation of antimicrobials, improve knowledge and awareness and promote best practices for antimicrobial prescriptions.