For the report, the WHO examined 2015 data from 65 countries and territories. Most of the data centered on Europe and countries with pre-existing, fully developed antibiotic surveillance systems.
Here are four takeaways from the report:
1. The report showed wide variation in both the total amount and choice of antibiotics used.
2. Burundi had the lowest rate of antibiotic use at 4.4 doses given per 1,000 people each day. Mongolia had the highest rate at 64.4 doses per 1,000 inhabitants daily.
3. Amoxicillin and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid were the most common antibiotic regimens in a majority of countries.
4. The WHO suggests some parts of the world are overusing antibiotics, while others lack crucial access to the medications.
“Findings from this report confirm the need to take action to ensure that antibiotics are used appropriately, such as enforcing prescription-only policies and implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs,” the WHO said.
To download the full report, click here.
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