2 The function of national AMR surveillance systems

The function of a national AMR surveillance system should incorporate the nine GLASS objectives as detailed above. As mentioned earlier, for the purposes of this module we will focus on human health and related issues. Not all countries will follow the GLASS format, but the principles are applicable to any similar surveillance system.

The GLASS initiative is designed to encourage the development of national AMR surveillance systems, with the WHO compiling data submitted at a national level into an annual report which allows international comparisons. Surveillance should primarily be a locally led activity. Recording and reporting AMR at the national level is an important part of a coherent and joined-up national strategy to tackle AMR.

We will now discuss the key features of national AMR surveillance systems, as recommended by WHO GLASS.