13 Summary

In this course you have learned about the role of the environment in the emergence and transmission of AMR. You have learned about the processes involved in the development and transmission of AMR in the environment and how this is linked with human and animal health. You have learned about the value of wastewater treatment, and how wastewater and other environmental compartments can be surveilled to reveal trends in AMR. You have also learned the importance of correct surveillance methodology, and how environmental surveillance protocols are being established.

You should now be able to:

• explain how AMR emerges and is maintained in the environment, and how it is transmitted and spread within the environment and between the environment, humans and animals
• illustrate the main ways by which human activities, including animal husbandry, exacerbate AMR in the environment and how these could be managed
• explain the consequences of AMR organisms and mobile AMR genes in the environment
• demonstrate awareness of the links between AMR and pollution and waste
• explain the purpose(s) of environmental AMR-related surveillance and its importance as part of the One Health multisectoral approach to addressing AMR
• outline environmental surveillance methodologies
• explain what factors need to be considered when designing/implementing AMR-related surveillance in the environment
• describe an example of how environmental surveillance can be integrated with human and animal surveillance as part of a One Health approach.

Now that you have completed this course, consider the following questions:

• What is the single most important lesson that you have taken away from this course?
• How relevant is it to your work?
• Can you suggest ways in which this new knowledge can benefit your practice?

When you have reflected on these, go to your reflective blog [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]   and note down your thoughts.