Combating Antimicrobial Resistance- Time for Joint ActionWhat:The dangers of excessive use of antimicrobialshave been known for decades.Raising awareness and taking action againstantimicrobial resistance (AMR) is not new to theEuropean Union, but taking further action withinthe union is necessary in order for us to effectivelymeet the challenges of AMR, and we must actnow. On that basis antimicrobial resistance willbe a main priority during the Danish Presidencyof the Council of the EU in early 2012.In a collaborative effort between the Ministryof Health and the Ministry of Food, Agricultureand Fisheries, the Danish Presidency will hosta conference which will focus on the use ofantimicrobials in both human and veterinarymedicine.The conference will aim to address the challengesof AMR and how to tackle this microbial threat atEU level by reviewing the situation, exchangingbest practices and discussing possible solutions– actions that work.Who:Where and when:•Bella Center, Copenhagen, Denmark,

14-15 March, 2012.

Why:•All over the world resistance towards lifesavingantimicrobials are emerging.•The increasing development of AMR is aglobal threat to human and animal health.•More than 25.000 people in the EU dieeach year from infections caused byantibiotic-resistant bacteria.Practical:•An official invitation will follow, includingprogram and practical information regardingaccreditation etc.Format:•Plenary sessions•Workshops•Approx. 300 participants from human andveterinary medicine including food safetyreresenting Member States, as well asstakeholder organisations and institutions,hereunder experts in the field.Focus:•Improve data collection and surveillance ofantibiotic use and resistance for both animalsand humans throughout the EU.•Stop overuse of antibiotics in humans andanimals - focus on rational use.•Reduce the use of critically important antibioticsin humans and animals.•The costs are considerable, not only in regardsto human life, but also socioeconomicallybecause of prolonged illnesses and increasedhospitalisation rates, which in turn increasehealth care costs and reduce productivity.•The misuse, and especially overuse, ofantibiotics have resulted in the developmentof AMR.•We risk returning to a pre-penicillin state,where people may die of hitherto easilytreatable infections.•If we do not act now, the consequences mayprove fatal.