Antimicrobial resistance prevention and education in schools: a brief for education policy-makers and school practitioners

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a threat to global health, food security and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is estimated that bacterial AMR was directly responsible for 1.27 million deaths worldwide in 2019 and contributed to 4.95 million deaths (1). Tackling AMR is critical to preserving the world’s ability to treat diseases in humans, animals and plants, reduce risks to food safety and security, protect the environment and maintain progress towards achieving the SDGs. 

This brief highlights the critical role of schools in the response to AMR and actions for school practitioners to consider. Implementing the strategies described below could contribute significantly to preventing and mitigating the development and spread of AMR and promoting overall health and well-being in school communities.