Sweden Launches Ambitious Ten-Year Strategy to Combat Antibiotic Resistance

Sweden has unveiled a comprehensive national strategy aimed at tackling the escalating threat of antibiotic resistance, which Social Minister Jakob Forssmed has described as one of the most serious health risks today. The government plans to implement this strategy over the next decade with clear, measurable goals to reduce antibiotic use and prevent infections.

Key objectives include limiting antibiotic prescriptions to a maximum of 250 per 1,000 inhabitants annually by 2035, maintaining childhood vaccination coverage at or above 95%, and reducing healthcare-associated infections by one-third. A significant preventive measure is the introduction of the chickenpox vaccine for all non-immune children and adolescents under 18 years, addressing the risk of secondary infections that often lead to antibiotic use.

Despite Sweden currently having low levels of antibiotic resistance, Forssmed highlighted the global rise in resistant bacteria as a dire threat, citing that over 1 million deaths globally in 2019 were linked to antibiotic-resistant infections. The government also acts proactively by purchasing an antibiotic manufacturing facility to secure a steady supply of essential medications during crises.

The strategy encompasses 17 broad goals targeting human healthcare, animal health, and environmental sectors, reflecting a holistic approach to the problem. The World Health Organization's classification of antibiotic resistance as a 'silent pandemic' underscores the urgency of Sweden's initiative. As per the Public Health Agency of Sweden, an estimated 70,000 Swedes may be affected annually by resistant bacteria by 2050 if urgent actions are not taken.

This sweeping plan demonstrates Sweden's leadership in public health policy, with Forssmed stressing the critical need to act now to safeguard the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations. The combination of stricter prescription regulations, enhanced vaccination programs, and infection prevention targets sets a robust framework towards mitigating the public health threat posed by antimicrobial resistance.