Publications by the
National AMR committee
Strategy and Action Plan for the Prevention and Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance in Malta
In 2000, a working group set up by the Health Department published a report about antibiotic resistance and use in Malta. Various issues were raised such as encouragement for more prudent use of antimicrobials and emphasis to infectious disease and antimicrobials in undergraduate curricula.
This early work led the government to launch the STRATEGY and ACTION PLAN for the Prevention and Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Malta (2020-2028). This Strategy is a cross-sectoral response to the threat of AMR in Malta with the aim of
controlling and possibly reversing current AMR trends. It has been informed by a review of national and international literature as well as expert advice from key stakeholders, especially the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The Strategy aligns with the World Health Organisation Global Action Plan on AMR, the EU Action Plan on AMR as well as the National legislation. It recognises the interconnectedness of humans, animals and the environment and adopts a whole of Government, a whole of society and a comprehensive One Health Approach to AMR, recognising the complexity of the issue.
Guidelines for Prevention of Transmission of
CPE in Nursing Homes
The Infection Prevention and Control of Mater Dei Hospital and Healthcare Standards Directorate issued guidelines for the prevention of transmission of Carbapenem Resistant Enterobacteriales (CRE) in nursing homes in 2019. This guidance provides expert advice on the management of colonisation or infection due to CREs in non-acute care settings in Malta and Gozo (including residential, rehabilitation and long-term care facilities) in order to prevent or reduce transmission and spread. It applies to both residents and patients, who will be referred to collectively as residents.
Committee Annual Reports
The National Antimicrobial Resistance Committee, in line with the National Strategy and Action plan, publishes an Annual Report on the state of antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic use in Malta, within both human and animal health.
Annual Report 2022 (with 2021 data)
Newsletters
Prescription Forms for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Common mild upper respiratory tract infections are mainly caused by viruses. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. In such cases, there are other symptomatic relief remedies to be used, as recommended in the Prescription Form for Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infections.
However, if after 48 hours symptoms deteriorate e.g., patient develops a high fever, this could indicate a bacterial infection. In this case, a Delayed Antibiotic Prescription may be indicated.
If you would like to receive a fillable copy of these prescriptions, kindly contact [email protected].