Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest global health threats facing the world. It occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat, and increasing the risk of disease, illness, and death.

If we do nothing, the World Health Organisation have predicted we will see 10 million deaths by 2050. The UK Government have created a 20 year vision to contain and control antimicrobial resistance.

The good news is that we can take action. By preventing infections and using antimicrobials appropriately, we can contain and control antimicrobial resistance.

The e-Bug programme supports UK Government efforts to respond to antimicrobial resistance by promoting public education on:

• Preventing infection, including promoting good hygiene practices in homes, schools and communities
• Understanding the symptoms and signs of infection, and knowing when to self-care and when to seek professional advice
• Knowing the risks and benefits of antimicrobials, and only taking them as and when directed by a healthcare professional

We do this by providing wrap around messaging to children and young people through their trusted information sources, including their schools, their parents and caregivers, and their community leaders.

The e-Bug programme started in 2006, and was originally funded by the European Commission. Now operated by the UK Health Security Agency, the programme continues to be implemented across communities here in the UK and abroad.