The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), undoing much of the progress achieved in recent years. Existing literature and expert opinion point to several interrelated factors that contributed to these disruptions, including patient- and facility-level issues (e.g., extended hospital stays, shifts in patient case-mix and comorbidities), healthcare workforce challenges (e.g., burnout from emotional, psychological, and physical strain), infection prevention and control (IPC) adherence challenges, and antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) implementation issues, particularly in the early stages of the pandemic. To combat AMR during public health emergencies, experts advocated for timely access to AMR data, guidance, and diagnostics, through effective communication channels and relationships to support effective policies and treatment decisions. Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic can help support the preparedness and proactive planning needed to ensure ongoing, effective antimicrobial stewardship during future public health emergencies.
