Public Health Agency of Canada
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Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change in such a way that the medications used to cure the infections they cause become less effective.
AMR develops as a result of inappropriate use of antibiotics, for example, taking antibiotics for viral infections like cold or flu or not finishing antibiotics that are prescribed for you.
This is an especially important public health concern because a resistant infection can be spread from one person to many others. Because of this, AMR is a concern for the entire community.
In collaboration with many partners, the Public Health Agency of Canada works to monitor trends in antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance in humans, animals and food.
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