Antimicrobials are used to treat millions of people worldwide, used for minor illnesses, to supporting surgery, in modern cancer therapies and in the treatment of potentially life-threatening infections, in both humans and animals.
However, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a major public health threat, with an increasing number of resistant organisms, making antimicrobials less effective at treating infection.
The UK government’s 5-year National Action Plan sets out the vision to reducing the incidence of AMR.
The SEL ICS Joint Forward Plan for Transforming and Integrating Medicines Optimisation sets out AMS as a priority action to support delivery of the NHS Long Term Plan.
This is being delivered in south east London by:
The south east London Primary Care Antimicrobials Prescribing Guidelines are hosted and available electronically via the EOLAS® app and EOLAS Medical website.
For further information, refer to the Eolas Medical Quick Reference Guide for detailed guidance on accessing Eolas system.
Every November, World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) brings people together to raise awareness of the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. In 2024, NHS South East London joined this global campaign to help protect the power of antibiotics for generations to come.