Evaluating the need for hygiene behaviour change in homes and everyday lives to prevent the spread of infections and combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious threat to global health. It is on the

brink of undermining modern medicine if appropriate strategies, including those

for infection prevention, are not prioritized. This article explores evidence that

supports the value of better hygiene practices in our homes and everyday lives.

A more focused approach to hygiene based on risk assessment (known as

Targeted Hygiene) will play an essential part in preventing infections in order to

reduce antibiotic prescribing and reduce the spread of resistant bacteria in home

and community settings. This also has value for COVID-19 prevention.