Technical brief on water, sanitation, hygiene and wastewater management to prevent infections and reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance

This technical brief on the nexus between Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents six action areas for coordinated multi-sectoral action, for consideration and refinement in each country context. These include: coordination and leadership; households and communities; health care facilities; animal and plant production; manufacturing of antimicrobials; and surveillance and research.Most countries have developed national action plans regarding AMR. However, WASH and wastewater management is often not, or not adequately, addressed.Tackling this is critical because water, and potentially soil, may be major modes for AMR development and spread. There is growing evidence that effective WASH and wastewater management will reduce the risks posed to human, animal and plant health by AMR.