The use of antibiotics is linked to both the emergence and spread of resistance. Therefore, it is important to use antibiotics rationally – only when needed and in the correct way.

Our tasks within the area of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance involve:

• working to preserve the ability to effectively use antibiotics against bacterial infections in humans and animals
• compiling and actively imparting knowledge to the health services, social services and to the general public on issues that concern antibiotic resistance
• participating in ensuring that prescribers, other concerned professional groups and the general public apply the knowledge available on antibiotic resistance
• promoting initiatives at local and regional level on issues related to antibiotic resistance
• drawing attention to issues that concern antimicrobial resistance other than antibiotic resistance, healthcare-associated diseases and infection control, within the field of activities of the Agency.