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By rdnewsNOW Staff

AMR ON THE RISE

Alberta government developing framework to tackle rising antimicrobial resistance

Nov 27, 2024 | 2:59 PM

The Government of Alberta is developing a framework to address a rising prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and microscopic parasites change over time and become more resistant to previously effective medicines.

Government officials say AMR is increasing globally and could negatively impact human health in addition to animal health and welfare, the environment and the province’s agri-food industries.

Alberta’s One Health Antimicrobial Resistance Framework for Action (AMR Framework) is expected to lay the groundwork for the province’s response to this issue.

“We are taking immediate action to curb and prevent the potential harm that antimicrobial resistance could have on the health of Albertans. Thanks to Alberta’s existing expertise, robust infrastructure, and a clear framework to build upon, we are well-positioned to strengthen our resistance efforts for future generations,” commented Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange.

The framework was developed through engagement with AMR partners, including human and animal health professionals, professional associations and licensing bodies, healthcare delivery partners, agriculture and agri-food industries, and academics, to provide structure and direction for Alberta’s approach to AMR, the government says.

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It is designed to acknowledge the One Health (interconnections between human, animal and environmental health) approach for coordinating efforts among the ministries of Health, Agriculture and Irrigation, and Environment and Protected Areas.

“Antimicrobial resistance affects animal health and the agriculture sector far and wide and is likely to get worse without coordinated efforts,” said RJ Sigurdson, minister of agriculture and irrigation. “This framework outlines Alberta’s response on all fronts to ensure our farmers and ranchers can face this issue head-on and continue to produce healthy, high-quality food for people worldwide.”

The AMR Framework is expected to be implemented in phases, which the Government of Alberta investing $5 million over the next two years to support the project.

Officials say this funding will support antimicrobial stewardship in acute care settings and veterinary practices and will include development of AMR resources and communications. It is also expected to help identify and develop strategies to implement local, national or international guidelines for both human and animal health sectors.

Representatives of the Alberta government share that a 2018 report found AMR cost the Canadian health care system an estimated $1.4 billion and directly resulted in 5,400 deaths that year.