Combating antibiotic resistance, mitigating future threats and ongoing initiatives.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To emphasise the impact of antibiotic resistance as a persistent, global health threat and highlight efforts to improve this complex problem. BACKGROUND: Political agendas, legislation, development of therapies and educational initiatives are essential to mitigate the increasing rate of antibiotic resistance. DESIGN: Original manuscript. RESULTS: Prescribers, policymakers and researchers are charged with the complex task of mitigating antibiotic resistance in an era when new treatments for bacterial infections are limited. CONCLUSIONS: Monitoring, surveillance and incentivising of practice, policy and new treatments provide solutions to antibiotic resistance in both the human and agricultural sectors. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: This article emphasises the complexity of antibiotic resistance and highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to improve health care outcomes.