Overview
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when organisms are resistant to antimicrobial agents that would usually be used for treatment of an infection. Antimicrobial resistance develops when organisms are exposed to antimicrobial agents through clinical therapy and use in the agricultural setting. The overuse, misuse and abuse of antibiotics is the leading factor that contributes to the continued development of antimicrobial resistance. Use of antibiotics in the agricultural setting to promote the growth of feed animals also impacts the development of antimicrobial resistance.
How antimicrobial resistance spreads
Antimicrobial resistance can be transmitted from person-to-person, from organisms that are persistent in the environment, or from resistant bacteria that contaminate food.
Source: CDC
Prevention of Antimicrobial Resistance
The best way to prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance is through the judicious use of antimicrobials. Patients can ensure judicious antimicrobial use by:
- Talking to your healthcare provider about measures to relieve symptoms without using antibiotics
- Taking prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed by your healthcare provider
- Never pressuring your healthcare provider for an antibiotic prescription
- Never saving antibiotics for the next time you are sick
Healthcare professionals can help prevent the spread of antimicrobial resistance by:
- Prescribing an antibiotic that targets the bacteria that is most likely causing the infection
- Not treating asymptomatic colonized patients
- Prescribing an antibiotic only when it will benefit the patient
The Indiana Department of Health will be holding regional education events on MDROs with a focus on Project Firstline, carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPO), Candida auris, screening, and infection prevention practices as they pertain to MDROs.
Infection preventionists, nurses, patient care attendants, environmental service workers, hospital leaders, and others are encouraged to attend.
Registration for 2025 Event
Page last updated: August 2025